Vokes injury woe for Burnley

Burnley’s automatic promotion hopes have suffered a crushing blow with the news that striker Sam Vokes’ season is over.

The Wales international frontman has played a major role in firing the Lancashire club to the brink of a Premier League return with 20 goals in 39 Championship games.

But Vokes ruptured his anterior cruciate knee ligament in Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat against leaders Leicester City, a result that severely dented Burnley’s title tilt.

Vokes joins fellow striker Danny Ings – who has 19 league goals to his name in 2013-14 – on the sidelines, along with right-back Kieran Trippier – arguably the club’s three best players.

The squad depth at second-placed Burnley – who are nine points clear of QPR in third – will now be tested to the limit over the last seven games of the season.

Burnley boss Sean Dyche told the club’s official website: “Sam has had a great season and I am sure you will join us all in supporting him during his recovery.

“As ever, our team mentality remains focused and this represents another opportunity for someone to come and make a continued contribution in the closing weeks of the season.”