STAR Burnley striker Andy Payton has been given a police caution after an incident in which it was alleged a man was hit with a golf club.

Division Two's joint leading scorer missed Tuesday's 2-0 home defeat by leaders Stoke for what manager Stan Ternent described as "personal problems''.

Allegations were made that earlier that day Payton, who lives in the Accrington area, had been involved in an incident in Thompson Street, Padiham, in which shop windows were damaged.

A 25-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment after allegedly being hit across the shoulder with a golf club.

A woman, who came out of a nearby shop to see what was going on was also hit in the face, it was claimed.

Mr Payton, accompanied by his solicitor, attended Burnley police station yesterday.

After being interviewed about Tuesday's incident he was allowed to leave without charge.

Police Inspector Stuart Boothman said: "A man has been interviewed following an incident in Thompson Street, Padiham. He has received a police caution. There will be no court proceedings.''

Mr Payton will now be available for selection for Tuesday's FA Cup tie at Darlington.

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