NORTHERN Ireland international Liam Boyce heads to Valley Parade bursting with confidence for Burton.

Boyce’s winner against Doncaster was his third goal in three league games – a welcome lift for boss Nigel Clough, who has faced some stick since the Brewers dropped from the Championship.

But Clough admits he is nervously ticking off the days to the end of the month – and the end of the loan window – to make sure Boyce, pictured, is not attracting second-tier interest.

Clough said: “He is one that we are desperately trying to keep hold of. I’m sure there are a few Championship clubs who have got an eye on him.”

Midfielder Joe Sbarra has added to a growing casualty list after twisting an ankle blocking a shot.

Clough, who named only five subs on Saturday, is trying to bring in a loan player after being pipped by Portsmouth for Millwall’s Ben Thompson.

“To lose four players after three league games is very unfortunate. We’ve had bad luck with injuries.”