TURF MOOR'S promising winger Paul Smith could be out of the game until Christmas.

Smith broke his foot in pre-season training and it was initially thought he could be back in contention within a couple of months. But today Burnley fans were rocked by the news that Smith is likely to be out of action until the end of the year.

Player-boss Chris Waddle confirmed : "Paul will be out of the picture for around four months.

"That is a big disappointment because he had looked so sharp in training before his injury. Although I've never seen Paul Smith play I've heard a lot about him.

"It will probably be November to December time before Paul is back in contention. When he is fit and ready it will be like having a new signing on the books."

Smith made a massive impression last season under Adrian Heath and John Ward and was the subject of a mystery £500,000 bid before transfer deadline day.

Waddle, meanwhile, has handed a short trial to speedy Nigerian striker Ybooe.

The quicksilver African forward featured as a second half substitute in Monday's crushing 7-0 reserve team win over Unibond League side Harrogate Town. And the Clarets player-boss may give Ybooe a second opportunity to impress the new management team tonight when Burnley's second string face Accrington Stanley at the Crown Ground (7.30pm) Prices: £3 adults, £1.50 concessions.

Waddle explained: "We get quite a few requests from players abroad for trials and we are just having a look at him.

"I'm not yet in a position to say whether we will pursue it any further."

Experienced goalkeeper Tony Parks is likely to feature after making his Clarets debut at Harrogate.

Former Clarets skipper Steve Thompson and goalkeeper Wayne Russell have joined Third Division Rotherham United. Ex-Burnley striker Brendan O'Connell has signed for Second Division rivals Wigan Athletic.

Colne Clarets Travel: Watford, 8.00 am Morris Dancers; Lincoln City, 3.30 pm, Morris Dancers. Phone Tony on 01282 864953 or Alan on 01282 864147.

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