Burnley boss Owen Coyle has paid a glowing tribute to Graham Alexander ahead of the veteran defender's return to Preston this weekend.The Scotland international, 36, made 400 appearances for North End before being sold to the Clarets in a shock £100,000 switch last August.

Coyle said: "I really cannot speak highly enough of Graham. He is a top class professional who does not miss a days training and who is usually the last one off the training ground.

"Graham will recognise that they (Preston) have played a big part in his life and there is bound to be an emotional attachment, but his career is with Burnley now.

"He has been outstanding for me since day one and I will expect the same on Saturday."

More Football News from TEAMtalk