PHIL Gray looks set to lead the Clarets attack against Wimbledon on Saturday following his mid-week injury scare while on duty with Northern Ireland.

The summer signing, who opened his Burnley account with the equaliser at Bolton last Saturday, missed his country's defeat by Yugoslavia last night after feeling a problem with his knee in the run-up to the game.

However, he has responded to treatment since his return to Turf Moor and the signs are that the former Luton Town striker will be given the all-clear to make his full home debut against the Dons.

"We are keeping our fingers crossed that he will be alright. He has been in for treatment and the first impressions are that it doesn't look too bad.

"I am hopeful that he will be fit," confirmed boss Stan Ternent.

Gray's inclusion alongside Andy Cooke would be vital for the Clarets if they are still without Andy Payton.

Last season's leading scorer is recovering from a fractured toe but next Tuesday's home leg against Hartlepool United in the Worthington Cup may be a more realistic target.

And midfielder Lennie Johnrose will also have his former club in his sights as he battles back from a knee injury which has kept him out of contention so far.

"Payts is making progress, along with Lennie Johnrose and Dean West, although I don't know if they will be ready for Saturday," Ternent admitted. Wimbledon, outside the top flight for the first time since 1986, could hand a first start to close-season buy Paul Robinson.

The former Newcastle United striker, who moved to Selhurst Park for £1.5 million, started last Saturday's 0-0 draw against Tranmere on the bench but after a further week's training could displace Carl Leaburn up front.

The Clarets can expect a bumper gate for their first home game back in Division One with their season-ticket sales of 11,700 ranking them third in the division behind Blackburn Rovers and Wolves, a 69 per cent increase on last season.

"I'm delighted with the response from our supporters. We are back where we belong and to be among the biggest clubs in the division is a tremendous achievement," said chief executive Andrew Watson (right).

"Turf Moor will be a fantastic place to watch football this season and I'm sure the fans will create a unique atmosphere that will be the envy of the First Division."