A CLARETS fan who knocked a rival supporter's tooth out on the day of the Burnley v Blackburn Rovers derby could start the new year in jail.

Ian Woods, 38, kicked and punched dentist Christopher Lees, 50, using what Burnley Magistrates Court heard was "gratuitous violence, for no reason whatsover."

Woods had his case adjourned until 22 January, to Preston Magistrates Court, by stipendiary magistrate Jonathan Finestein, who told him prison was very much on the cards and he shouldn't infer that because he was being bailed he would keep his freedom.

The magistrate added that, depending on the latest medical evidence which would then be available on Mr Lees, he reserved the right to commit the defendant to the crown court for sentence.

Woods, of Willow Avenue, Haslingden, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm and his solicitor Philip Turnerhad asked for a pre-sentence report.

Pat Bramley, prosecuting, said the defendant was walking past Mr Lees, when for no reason he hit him several times. He had abused his victim because he was wearing Blackburn Rovers colours but Mr Lees tried to ignore Woods and went on his way.

Miss Bramley said the defendant then asked Mr Lees: "You're frightened aren't you?" hit him and kicked him at the top of his leg.

Mr Lees was hit hard enough to be knocked to the ground and had already been limping before the attack because of a knee injury. He was left with a black eye. One of his teeth was snapped off and it was going to require considerable reconstruction.

Miss Bramley said that when the defendant was interviewed he admitted what he had done. The prosecutor added the assault was gratuitous violence, for no reason whatsoever.