OWEN Coyle says the arrival of Stanislav Varga has come at a vital time for Burnley.

The strapping central defender has signed an initial one-month loan deal from Sunderland and is expected to go straight into the side to face Arsenal tomorrow with both Clarke Carlisle and David Unsworth sidelined through injury and suspension respectively.

At 6ft 4ins, the towering Slovakian international fits the call for a "dominant centre half" that the Burnley boss made in the aftermath of New Year's Day's disappointing defeat at Blackpool.

"I'm delighted to get Varga in on loan," said Coyle.

"I have known him for years, both from when I played against him and during my time as a coach and manager.

"In the light of our injuries and suspensions, he will bring a physical presence to the backline.

"I'm sure he will complement the squad and have a big impact on the team."