Coyle keen on Anderson deal

Clarets chief impressed by Sunderland defender

Last updated: 29th September 2008

sunderland russell anderson

Anderson: Impressed Coyle

Burnley boss Owen Coyle admits he would be keen to sign Russell Anderson on a permanent basis.

Anderson's season-long loan stint at Turf Moor from Sunderland has been cut short by a cruciate ligament injury.

The former Aberdeen defender will miss the rest of the campaign after picking up the problem early on in last week's Carling Cup win over Fulham.

However, Coyle admits he would be prepared to offer his fellow Scot a long-term deal with the Championship club once he is back to fitness.

Real belief

"If and when he's back fit, I would love to have Russell here on a permanent basis," said Coyle in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.

"I have a real belief in him. I think he's a top player and he's a fantastic man.

"Russell was there against Preston and I think that shows you something about the spirit in the football club.

"The lad's had a cruciate operation and he's come to the game with his kid and went into the dressing room with the lads.

"Whether we replace him for the time being, only time and finances will dictate that."