BURNLEY were rocked by a fresh injury blow today.

Star midfielder Steve Thompson could be out of action for a month after he underwent keyhole surgery on his left knee.

Now Burnley are anxiously awaiting the consultant's report to see how long the Turf Moor playmaker is likely to be sidelined.

Thompson's problem began after he injured his knee in training a fortnight ago. That, in turn, has forced him to miss the last four league and cup games.

Meanwhile, Damian Matthew faces a race against time to be fit for tomorrow's Division Two encounter at Chesterfield.

Matthew suffered a dead leg in the midweek 4-1 Coca-Cola defeat at Charlton and today his chances were only rated at 50-50.

Matthew, who has impressed this season since a summer move from Crystal Palace, was substituted early in the second half. Manager Adrian Heath could add defender Vince Overson to his squad, increasing speculation that the former Claret could be involved Saltergate.

Overson enjoyed a full 90 minute work-out in the private friendly against Blackburn Rovers at Brockhall on Wednesday.

"We'll have to see how Vince is today and then I'll make a decision tomorrow," confirmed Heath.

"The game at Chesterfield will be a really tough, physical encounter but we will have to deal with that. We know what to expect. They are big, strong and very direct.

"I was extremely disappointed with the defeat at Charlton and tomorrow is an early opportunity to get back to winning ways.

"Charlton was the first time this season that we haven't competed and it's the most disappointed I've felt at any game since I took over as manager. I will be looking for a positive reaction from the players."

Third-placed Chesterfield have made a satisfactory start to the campaign and have notable victories at Blackpool, Gillingham and Luton under their belts. Burnley will choose from from: Beresford, Parkinson, Eyres, Harrison, Winstanley, Hoyland, Matthew, Brass, Nogan, Barnes, Gleghorn, Cooke, Smith, Overson, Weller, Russell (GK).

Chesterfield choose from: Mercer, Hewitt, Rogers, Curtis, Williams, Dyche, Gaughan, Davies, Morris, Holland, Jules, Lormor, Perkins, Lomas.

Striker Andy Cooke was today under treatment for a leg injury picked up at the Valley on Tuesday.

It's all pay on the turnstiles at Chesterfield tomorrow. £9.00 (seats), £8.00 (terrace). The League fixture against Bury at Gigg Lane on October 1 will be all-ticket for Burnley fans. Seats (£10.00 adult and £5.00 junior and OAP), Terrace: £9.00 (no conc).

Director Clive Holt will be the guest speaker at the Clarets Independent Supporters Association meeting at the Centre Spot on Thursday (8.00). New members are welcome to join on the night.

Burnley Supporters Club. Coach to Chesterfield. Colne 11.00, Nelson 11.15, Burnley 11.30, Rawtenstall 11.45.

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