BURNLEY boss Sean Dyche has had his defence depleted going into the final game of the season, after granting David Edgar permission to return to Canada for the birth of his first child.

Although the versatile Canadian international has been deployed in midfield in most of his appearances under Dyche, Edgar has been more recognised at centre half at Turf Moor.

With Michael Duff suspended for Saturday’s visit of Ipswich Town, following his dismissal in the 2-1 win at Wolves, and both Kevin Long and Ben Mee doubtful through injury Edgar could have been called upon as defensive cover.

But Edgar, who scored a late equaliser to secure a point at home to champions Cardiff in his penultimate game, asked if he could return to his native country to be with his fiancee for their imminent arrival.

Dyche confirmed: “David asked if he could go home and I have absolutely no issue with that because family always comes first.”

Edgar will now not return to the club until pre-season training in late June.

However, there will be plenty of football to keep him occupied over the summer as well as fatherhood, as the 25-year-old is set to be involved in Canada’s CONCACAF Gold Cup games in American cities Los Angeles, Seattle and Denver.

The Canucks have been drawn in a group with Mexico, Panama and Martinique, and will also play a friendly with Costa Rica.

In the meantime, Burnley boss Dyche will be considering his options for a central defensive partner for captain Jason Shackell this weekend.

Duff stepped up off the bench at Molineux after Long went down in the warm-up with a tight calf.

It is possible the former Cork City youngster could recover in time to return to the side for the season finale.

  • BURNLEY’S development squad were beaten 2-1 in a behind closed doors game with Sunderland yesterday.

Luke O’Neill scored with a header from Steven Hewitt’s corner to give the Clarets an early lead before the Black Cats hit back.