BURNLEY may face competition if Stan Ternent steps up his bid to sign Norwegian defender Rune Vindheim.

But crucially the Clarets are set to get first bite at the cherry after including Vindheim in their squad at Manchester City today where he was poised to make an instant debut.

Burnley boss Ternent registered Vindheim as a non-contract player to allow him to include the 26-year-old in the trip to Maine Road.

And further talks are due to follow regarding a possible full-time move to Turf Moor.

Vindheim, who started his career with Brann Bergen before playing for Norwegian Second Division side Fana last season, confirmed that it is an ambition to play in England and one which he hopes to fulfill with Burnley.

"I think so but it depends on the contract," he said. "I am talking to the manager on Monday. I have family in Norway and I hope I can bring them over as soon as possible.

"I like Burnley. The club is very professional and the manager and coach seem very good. I think Burnley are a very good team and it's a very nice stadium. It was a pleasure to play there."

However, Vindheim confirmed that there are others waiting in the wings to try and secure his services.

"There are some other English clubs interested," he added.

And he is optimistic that he can make the grade in the Nationwide League.

"I am fast, a good tackler, good in the air and with a good technique. I think I can fit in," he added.

Vindheim's dramatic call-up came after training with Burnley this week and impressing for the reserves in their 1-0 defeat by Coventry City. "I am surprised but I am happily surprised," he said.

The player's performance stood out in a decent Pontin's League game, although he felt he could still have done better.

He added: "I made a few mistakes but I had not played with the team before and did not know all the players. I will be prepared for today.

"City are a big team in Norway. We follow them by television so I know City but not the players."

Vindheim looked an outstanding talent in mid-week with his composure and passing ability catching the eye.

However, Ternent has stressed that one swallow doesn't make a summer and the player himself is hoping that he won't be judged solely on what happens at Maine Road today.

But if early impressions are confirmed Ternent could pull off a coup under the Bosman ruling which cost Burnley the services of Gerry Harrison, Damian Matthew and Chris Vinnicombe for nothing in the summer but which now looks set to work in their favour.

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