According to the Burnley Express, Clarets striking duo Ashley Barnes and Lukas Jutkiewicz are struggling to recover from respective hamstring injuries.

The Burnley pair were both relieved from the action in their 4-1 victory over Bradford in the most recent pre-season friendly as Sean Dyche’s men continued their preparation for the coming Premier League season.

Barnes limped off the field shortly before the half-time whistle blew after feeling the back of his leg as he played a pass back; a clear sign of the hamstring being sore for the powerful forward.

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Sean Dyche did, however, appreciate Barnes’ desire to keep himself fit:

Hopefully it’s not too serious; Barnes felt his hamstring a bit tight and a bit sore and he got off immediately. I’ve no problem with that, this is no time for heroes, we need fitness, that’s the key thing.

Barnes will be hopeful of a big season after recently extending his Turf Moor stay by signing a new deal.

Jutkiewicz was forced off at half-time, also, with his hamstring also feeling slightly tight, meaning that there was no reason to risk his fitness during a mere pre-season fixture.

Juke’s hamstring was tight as well which is why he didn’t come out for the second half. It wasn’t strained or anything but we just can’t afford to take risks at the minute so that’s why those two came off. We have to be careful.

Pre-season is for fitness and analysis; the pair made the right decision in resting their legs ahead of a massive Premier League season.