Jonjo Shelvey needs to improve his match sharpness before being considered for selection, according to Burnley manager Scott Parker.
Despite signing a short-term contract with the Clarets until the end of the season on January 20, the 32-year-old has yet to appear in a matchday squad.
Burnley drew 0-0 with league leaders Leeds United on Monday night, leaving the experienced midfielder out again.
When asked about Shelvey’s absence, Parker stated, “He probably just needs a little more grass training time.”
“He’s been with us now for 10 days, but he’s probably just not ready at this present moment in time and needs some more training.”
Parker hopes Shelvey, who is known for his creativity and ability to choose passes, will continue to play an important role in the second half of the season.
“I think he can [make a difference],” he said.
“He’s a player with a lot of experience, a player who takes chances with the ball, a player who can see a pass, and a player who can expose a backline and open up gaps. I’m confident Jonjo will provide it for us.”
Burnley will face Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday, and Shelvey hopes to make his debut.
In addition, fellow January recruit Oliver Sonne and Mike Tresor were left out of the Burnley squad on Monday.
Jordan Beyer, Aaron Ramsey, Enock Agyei, Manuel Benson, and Nathan Redmond are all currently out due to injuries.
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