DEAN Marney returns to Burnley's starting XI for today's table topping Championship clash at Leicester City.

The midfielder has endured a lengthy absence with a thigh injury.

His comeback against Bournemouth last month proved a false start as he went on to miss the next four games.

But Marney resumes his midfield partnership with David Jones at the King Power Stadium for the lunchtime kick-off.

Manager Sean Dyche has named arguably the strongest side available to him for the televised fixture.

Burnley go into the game top on goal difference following last weekend's win over Barnsley at a Turf Moor.

Former Clarets loanee David Nugent will be looking to extend his impressive goals record against his old club.

The former Preston striker has seven goals against Burnley, one more than he scored for the side in his 2009/10 loan spell.

LEICESTER: Kasper Schmeichel, Ritchie De Laet, Paul Konchesky, Danny Drinkeater, Wes Morgsn, Matty James, Jamie Vardy, Lloyd Dyer, Liam Moore, Anthony Knockaert, David Nugent.

Subs: Dean Hammond, Andy King, Jeff Schlupp, Gary Taylor-Fletcher, Ignasi Miquelon, Conrad Logan, Marcin Wasilewski.

BURNLEY: Tom Heaton; Kieran Trippier, Michael Duff, Jason Shackell, Ben Mee; Scott Arfield, Dean Marney, David Jones, Michael Kightly; Sam Vokes, Danny Ings.

Subs: Alex Cisak, Danny Lafferty, Junior Stanislas, David Edgar, Brian Stock, Keith Treacy, Kevin Long.