A hernia problem has restricted Gibson to just two starting appearances in the Europa League since his summer signing from Middlesbrough.

But after coming through successful surgery, which he underwent just over a month ago, and a programme of rehabilitation, the defender is on the comeback trail.

And a full 90 minutes as an over-age player in the Clarets’ 6-0 win over Sheffield United at the Tameside Stadium has eased him closer to where he wants to be.

“I’m really happy. It’s been a frustrating start for me, coming into a new club,” said Gibson.

“I haven’t been injured for a long time and I came here and got injured straight-away, so I’m just happy to put that behind me.

“I can’t wait to get back fit and help the team, and that was a big step to doing so.

“It’s just a case of building. We said we’d look to play 60-70 minutes and see how I felt. I felt quite good so managed to get 90 in.”

Gibson has been kept waiting for a Premier League debut for the Clarets, having sat on the bench in the opening couple of weeks of the campaign.

And the centre-back, who gave an assured performance in a comprehensive win over the Blades, is eager to make up for lost time and play his part in Burnley’s bid to move up the table after Saturday’s 5-0 defeat at Manchester City saw them slip to 13^th-place in a congested bottom half of the table.

“I can’t wait to be back in the mix with the lads,” added the 25-year-old.

“We’ve had some good results of late – bar the weekend – and I just want to get back and help them and make my mark for the team.

“Football is cruel sometimes, but the most important thing is the team and the team has done well the last few weeks.

“We were a little bit unfortunate in some ways on Saturday and I just want to get back to help and do what I can for the team.”

POS	Team	PL	PTS
15	FOR	5	5
16	BUR	5	4
17	BRE	5	4

POS	Team	PL	PTS
15	FOR	5	5
16	BUR	5	4
17	BRE	5	4

Returning Gibson Takes 'Big Step'

Premier League table

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