MARC Pugh has been forced to cut short his promising loan spell at Aggborough because of injury.

The Burnley teenager picked up a hamstring problem in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at leaders Accrington Stanley.

His month's loan was almost up anyway and he has now returned to Turf Moor for treatment and to spend his Christmas break at home.

Caretaker boss Martin O'Connor said: "He's going to be out for a few weeks so we thought, with Christmas coming up, it was best for him to stay up there where he could get himself looked after.

"Hopefully whoever comes in as manager could have a look at bringing him back in the new year because I think he's been a useful acquisition.

O'Connor's preparations for the Cup home double header against Scarborough on Saturday and Bradford on Tuesday in the FA Trophy and LDV Vans Trophy have also been hampered by injuries to Iysedene Christie and Mark Jackson.

Top scorer Christie missed the Accrington game with a neck problem and is still rated doubtful, but skipper Jackson should overcome a groin strain.

Gareth Sheldon could be in contention for Saturday's clash with Scarborough after recovering from a hamstring problem, but O'Connor himself is still battling a knee injury.

Fans are reminded that there will be special admission rates of £10 adults, £5 concessions and £2 under-16s for both cup ties.