Internationals and loans

Last updated : 08 August 2012 By Tony Scholes
Northern Ireland call for Martin Paterson

On Monday, Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill named his squad for their friendly next Wednesday against Finland at Windsor Park, Belfast. Michael Duff didn't make the squad having had a recall recently but both Danny Lafferty and Martin Paterson were named by O'Neill.

That's three Burnley players who will be away next week when we face Port Vale in the Capital One Cup, but the club quickly confirmed they would not be seeking the postponement they are now entitled to.

"It's not an idea time to lose players, but that's what it is, we have no choice in the matter," said manager Eddie Howe.

"We could potentially call the game off but I don't think that would be wise either because then we would play our first round when everyone else is playing their second round, and before you know it we've got a backlog of games.

"We will play the game but I don't think it's ideal for the lads either, because it is a competitive game with a view to Bolton and they are not going to be here, so I think it is disappointing all round."

The situation could be worsened for Burnley, certainly in terms of forwards. Already without Paterson, Danny Ings suffered an injury last night that was certainly showing some cause for concern and, tomorrow, Chris Coleman names his Wales squad that could also see us without Sam Vokes at Port Vale, leaving Charlie Austin as the only recognised striker.

Meanwhile, two of the development squad are on the move to Barrow. Striker Joe Jackson, who enjoyed a loan at Holker Street last season, and first year professional central defender Tom Anderson have both gone there until January.

Both played in the game at Barrow recently and both were in the team that won the Tony Downes Memorial Trophy on Saturday at Droylsden, a game watched by Barrow boss Dave Bayliss from the stand.

It's something we can expect more of. Manager Eddie Howe is keen to get as many of the development squad as possible out on loan during the season to give them much needed games.