Michael Duff has returned to full training to put himself in contention for a slice of the derby-day action against Preston.

Duff has been sidelined since picking up a calf injury in the Clarets' 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on the opening day of the season.

But the long-serving defender is out of the treatment room and pushing for a place in Brian Laws' squad for next Saturday's showdown with North End at Turf Moor.

"Michael has been very frustrated because he started the season in the team but had to come out after 20 minutes," said Laws.

"He's a great guy, he's great to have around the football club and it's great to see him back on the training ground and fully into it as well.

"He started training heavily on Wednesday and enjoyed being back with the players.

"That's encouraging for us and gives us another option to select from if necessary."

Laws expects Duff to push hard for a return

In Duff's absence, Clarke Carlisle has nailed down a place alongside Andre Bikey in the centre of the Clarets' defence.

But Laws expects Northern Ireland international Duff to be busting a gut to try and get his place back.

The Burnley boss added: "He knows the intensity required for being in the team and also trying to get back in there.

"He doesn't want to have any rest. He wants to push hard because he wants to get back in that team."