Burnley boss Sean Dyche has confirmed goalkeeper Tom Heaton faces ‘months’ on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a dislocated shoulder.

The England international sustained the problem during the Clarets 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday and he has since had an operation, which Dyche believes has gone well, although they will not be rushing the stopper’s comeback.

“I’m told it went very well,” Dyche said. “A surgeon we’ve known for a while at the club did a very good job as far as I know. I haven’t spoken to Tom yet because he was a bit groggy last night.

“We’re happy the surgery went well but we won’t rush Tom back. He has to be 100 per cent right, but this is just a blip and he’ll be fine.”

Nick Pope replaced Heaton during the victory over Palace and he is expected to retain a starting berth for the foreseeable future, although Dyche confirmed the club are actively seeking cover in the goalkeeping department, with former Manchester United stopper Anders Lindegaard joining the club on loan.

“He’s come in and spent a few days with us and we will speak to him accordingly,” Dyche added.

“Ideally you want three keepers and that is what we are looking to do if we can.”

Burnley have picked up seven points from their opening four Premier League fixtures this term and they will be looking to add to that tally when they take on Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday.

The Clarets are priced at 11.00 to win the match, while Liverpool are available at 1.29 and the draw is on offer at 6.00.