Burnley defender Stephen Ward admits it will be a massive blow for the squad if Robbie Brady is ruled out for a long period but he feels they can deal with the test.

The versatile midfielder had to be stretchered off as Burnley fell to a 1-0 defeat away at Leicester on Saturday following a nasty collision.

Brady clashed with Leicester defender Harry Maguire and he looked in a great deal of pain as he immediately signalled to the bench.

The Republic of Ireland international had his left leg wrapped up in a brace and was taken straight to hospital for scans to reveal the full extent of the problem.

Burnley are yet to release any official statement confirming the severity of the injury but boss Sean Dyche admitted he was fearing the worst during his post-match press conference.

Ward believes a lengthy absence for his team mate would certainly weaken their starting XI but feels they can deal with the setback.

“Obviously we don’t know the extent of it yet but it didn’t look great.

Fingers crossed that it’s not as bad as it looked. He’s been outstanding for us recently and if it is bad he’ll be a massive loss for us,” Ward said.

“It would be a massive blow. We’ll await the news and we wish him well because he’s been great for us. He’s great to have in the dressing room too so our thoughts are with him if it is bad.

“It’s another test for the squad but we’ve dealt with these kind of set backs before.”

Burnley can be backed at 2.50 to bounce back to winning ways on Saturday when they welcome Watford, who are priced at 3.00 to win at Turf Moor, while the draw is available at 3.20.