BURNLEY will face opposition from Gillingham and Sheffield United if they pursue their interest in Wigan defender Scott Green.

The Clarets have enquired about the out-of-contract Green, according to the player's agent.

But if a deal is to progress beyond that stage, the Clarets would have to hold off the advances of First Division rivals United and Gillingham.

And Wigan haven't yet given up hope of holding onto the former Bolton full-back, who has been offered new terms at the JJB Stadium. The 30-year-old right-sided defender has stalled on putting pen to paper but the arrival of Bruce Rioch at Wigan could yet sway it the Latics' way.

Green played under Rioch at Bolton and keeping the popular Green at the JJB would be a useful way for Rioch to kick off his managerial reign at the club.

Sheffield manager Neil Warnock's interest in Green was previously known but Gillingham have now entered the running.

The Gills' management was apparently impressed by Green's performance in last season's Second Division play-off final and chairman Paul Scally has been in touch to stake a claim for the player who is available without a fee under the Bosman ruling.

The Midlander is thought to be one of several players Burnley boss Stan Ternent has enquired about over the summer as he looks to strengthen his squad for the Clarets' tilt at the First Division.

However, Ternent stuck to his policy of not commenting on unfinished transfer dealings and it remains to be seen whether Green is still on his wanted list. If so, Green would provide experienced competition for the defensive positions, having spent four seasons in Division One and one in the Premiership at Bolton.