Burnley boss Owen Coyle admits he wanted to sign permanently Sunderland defender Russell Anderson before he suffered a knee injury.
"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."