INJURY-HIT Burnley are ready to strike out in the loan market before Saturday's Turf Moor clash against Stockport County at Turf Moor.

Manager Adrian Heath was forced to name himself as one of the substitutes in last night's 1-0 defeat at Bury as the injury crisis bit deep into his resources.

And the problems showed no real signs of improvement today as Paul Weller and striker Paul Barnes were both under treatment for knocks picked up at Gigg Lane.

Burnley already have 10 senior players under treatment for various knocks and bruises. Heath said: "I'm actively searching the loan market as cover because things are a bit desperate.

"I tried to get people in for the game at Bury but I couldn't arrange it time.

"I've spoken to a Premiership and a First Division manager about a couple of players but they were a bit reluctant to let players out.

"We will be pursuing a loan signing vigorously before the weekend and I hope to have a fresh face in the squad.

"We are still looking at bringing players in and, maybe, this situation just might force the issue."

Heath revealed it was as late as 5 pm last night before he knew what sort of side he would be able to field at Gigg Lane.

But the Turf Moor chief was bitterly disappointed with the result and criticised Burnley's first half performance.

He added: "Although we improved after half-time I was disappointed with our first half showing. We just didn't compete enough and were forced to pay a heavy cost."

Burnley Reserves are in Pontins League action against Shrewsbury Town at Gay Meadow tonight.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.