NOT since Alan Shearer burst onto the Premiership stage has a striker's emergence caused so much excitement in the top flight as Robbie Keane's.

In one respect, Keane's £6million move from Wolves earlier this season mirrors Shearer's dramatic impact following his £3.3 million move from Southampton to Ewood Park in 1992.

Keane had almost every big club tracking his progress in Division One before Wolves decided to cash in on the Republic of Ireland international, just as Shearer had attracted similar interest from the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal.

But the youngster decided not to thead for the bright lights, opting instead to prolong his apprenticeship at one of the less fashionable clubs.

It has proved a masterstroke.

Keane has been an instant hit at Highfield Road and has recently formed an impressive partnership with Cedric Roussel. But it's the Irishman who undoubtedly provides the cutting edge.

He already has nine Premiership goals to his credit, including two on a sensational debut against Derby, and the rest of his Carling Opta stats reveal his direct approach to the art of scoring.

Keane likes nothing better than to run at defenders or, having held the ball up, spin off for a return pass and a shot at goal.

In the equivalent of 16 games, Keane has attempted 41 shots and, on average, he sets off on runs seven or eight times a game.

So Burnley will be looking to cut off his supply lines in order to prevent the teenager from reaching scoring positions. TACTICS: Both sides are likely to start with a 4-4-2 line-up as they compete man-for-man.

KEY BATTLE: Carlton Palmer and Gary McAllister make a formidable central midfield unit which Paul Cook and Micky Mellon will have to try and outwit.

FORM GUIDE: Coventry's decent record this season is built around their impressive home form, underlined by a win and a draw against Arsenal and Chelsea in their last two games .

ONE TO WATCH: Moroccan international Youssef Chippo has adapted well to English football and is a dangerous attacker from a wide midfield position with four goals this season.

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