Burnley boss Owen Coyle is fully supportive of captain Steven Caldwell after his sending-off in the defeat at West Ham last weekend. The Scotland centre-back, chasing a weak back-pass aimed towards goalkeeper Brian Jensen, was dismissed for pulling back Zavon Hines in stoppage time with his team trailing 5-2.

Although his red card made no difference to the result Caldwell's one-match suspension could prove costly.

However, the Clarets boss would much rather his players contest every ball than allow opponents a free run.

"The mistake Steven Caldwell made was being short in the pass back," said Coyle.

"There was very little in the incident and the lad maximised any contact there was - and he was well within his rights to do that.

"But as much as it was a bad pass back Brian had dealt with it. I can see why the referee did it but he could easily have not done.

"Stevie has stepped across the line of the ball and the boy maximised the opportunity and we've lost our captain.

"For me the only criticism would be - and Steven knows this himself - he should have done better with the pass back but he has been an outstanding captain for me and will continue to be.

"We are disappointed not to have him on Saturday but he will bounce back and will show what a true leader he is."