CARLISLE United could emerge as serious challengers to Burnley for the signature of non-League striker Kevin Henderson, if Chris Waddle decides to go all the way and tries to add the Morpeth man to his staff.

Henderson, who has an outstanding scoring record for Morpeth Town, has already impressed Burnley boss Waddle in reserve team action.

And he is lined up to turn out for them again in tonight's Pontin's League match away to Bradford City.

But Second Division rivals Carlisle are also stepping up their interest in the 23-year-old.

The player spent a day training with Carlisle yesterday and they are also keen to see Henderson in match action.

"I'm just waiting to see what happens," he said today before heading for Bradford.

So, if Waddle wants to tie up a deal for the player, he might have to move quickly.

Even though Turf Moor finances seem to be tight at the moment, it is believed that only a modest fee would be required to obtain his release from Morpeth. Burnley have benefited from delving into non-League football in the past, with Andy Cooke joining them from Newtown.

His value has accelerated with suggestions that Crewe Alexandra could be ready to make a substantial bid to take Cooke to Gresty Road.

They have long been admirers of the striker and are set to start searching for a replacement for Dele Adebola, who has been transfer listed.

Burnley take on Preston North End at Turf Moor tomorrow night (kick-off 7-15pm) in the second round of the Lancashire FA Youth cup for professional clubs. Admissions is £3 adults, £1-50 concessions.

Fans travelling to Millmoor for Saturday's FA Cup first round tie against Rotherham United can pay on the turnstiles for both seats and terracing.

Admission prices are £7-50 adults, £5-50 concessions, on the terraces and £10 adults, £6-50 concessions, for seats.

If a replay is needed, it will be at Turf Moor on Tuesday, November 25 (kick-off 7-45pm).

The Colne Clarets' coach price to Rotherham for Saturday's game is £6 (£5). Departure is from the Morris Dancers at 11.30am.

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