Clarets top scorer Jay Rodriguez could miss back-to-back games for the first time this season as he recovers from a groin strain.

The striker sat out last weekend's home draw with West Ham United after aggravating the problem during the midweek defeat at Ipswich Town.

Manager Eddie Howe this morning confirmed Rodriguez had not trained all week, and with Burnley facing three games in less than a week - starting with Saturday's trip to Portsmouth - the Clarets chief is wary of asking too much of the 22-year-old.

"Jay Rod's still struggling a little bit," said Howe.

“He's been feeling this now for a couple of weeks.

“We're not sure whether he's out of the game yet. We just need to protect him and make sure there's nothing serious.

“He hasn't trained this week yet, so we'll wait and see on that one."

He added: “It's a minor niggle, but one that we have to make sure we get right."