The Clarets are without captain Steven Caldwell, who has not recovered from a groin injury, while Michael Duff is also out. Andre Bikey, recently signed from Reading, is eligible to make his debut at centre-back, while David Edgar could also debut after serving a suspension picked up when at Newcastle.
United are missing a host of defenders, with Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Jonny Evans, Gary Neville and Rafael all set to miss the game. That could mean a return for Wes Brown, who should partner John O'Shea in the centre of defence. Michael Carrick should make his first appearance of the season, while Anderson and Ryan Giggs are also pushing to start after missing out on Sunday
