Burnley boss Sean Dyche says Ben Mee’s injury is “nothing serious” after the defender missed the friendlies with Port Vale and Crewe.

The Clarets split their squad for the 3-1 win at Vale Park and 1-0 defeat at Gresty Road but Mee was not involved.

Dyche insists however it was simply down to a risk-free approach with his players for pre-season friendlies.

“Ben Mee’s nothing serious,” the Clarets boss said.

“We’re just monitoring people. At this stage you can’t take any risks at all.

“Even today, we explained before the game that if anyone feels anything at all that’s not the norm then they’ve got to come straight off.

“I’m pleased they didn’t because I want to get the minutes into them.”

Charlie Taylor was again absent with a groin problem but should be back sooner rather than later with the next friendly coming at League One Fleetwood on Tuesday night.

“Charlie worked hard yesterday and did some more work today,” Dyche said.  

“We’re hoping he’ll join in training from Monday onwards and we’ll have to make a decision for the game on Tuesday.”

Steven Defour’s recovery from calf surgery is also being treated carefully, the Belgian having not played since January.

“Steven Defour’s not right at the minute and we’ve got to make sure with him,” Dyche said.  

“I don’t know (if he’ll be right for the start of the season). There’s no pressure on him because he’s been through a serious injury and it’s important he has time to get over that.”