STRICKEN Burnley goalkeeper Danny Coyne this week took another great stride on the long road back to fitness.

The Welsh number one is now well into his rehabilitation after being ruled out for the season following a freak cruciate knee injury sustained against Brighton and Hove Albion at Turf Moor last September.

And Coyne, who still has another year left on his Turf Moor contract, has overcome the hurdle of starting to run again as he aims for a return to full fitness in time for next season.

Boss Steve Cotterill said: "Danny has started the next progression in his rehabilitation, but it's still not for us to be thinking he is anywhere near ready.

"It's just the next big step in the right direction."

Danish rival Brian Jensen has been a virtual ever-present since Coyne's untimely injury, missing just one game through suspension to allow loan keeper Lee Grant to make a solitary appearance against Leicester City in November.

But Jensen, who is now just two games short of his 100th league start for Burnley, admitted: "It's good to see Danny back.

"He had his first jog the other day and he is looking well.

"His spirits are high too and I'm looking forward to welcoming him back to action."