Paterson and Woodhead return to action

Last updated : 30 November 2011 By Tony Scholes

Ben's had an horrific time with injuries and is on his way back again after missing much of another season that has seen Josh Cook get ahead of him, playing in all the youth team games and covering for Jon Stewart in the reserves.

Both were named in the squad today for a game specially lined up to give Pato some match action as he makes another attempt to get back from the thigh injury that has plagued him now for well over a year and restricted him to just five appearances since the end of August last year.

Ben got on as a substitute during the second half but Pato played the entire first half before being withdrawn in a game that the Clarets won 2-1. Steven Hewitt gave us the lead and Zavon Hines, with his first goal for Burnley, won it after Hugo Rodallega had equalised.

The Burnley team was: Jon Stewart (Ben Woodhead 68), Aryn Williams, Tom Anderson, Jack Errington,  Luke Conlan, Zavon Hines, Cameron Howieson (Archie Love 69), Steven Hewitt, Dominic Knowles, Alex MacDonald, Martin Paterson (Joe Jackson 45).

It all leaves Paterson edging ever closer to a first team recall and a delighted Eddie Howe said: "I thought he looked sharp and had no ill effects so it was really good news.

"He will probably have another game now, a longer run-out and we will continue to work him hard in training, but he's not far away now. I think he will definitely play by Christmas. We want to get him back as soon as we can and I know Pato wants to get back as quickly he can. It's just making sure he's got that fitness behind him."

The manager was also pleased with the overall performance "It was a really, really good day today," he added.

"The pros showed a fantastic attitude, which is so important because they set the standard for the younger guys, and a few of the youth team players produced some excellent performances, so there were really good signs for the future."