Burnley striker Ashley Barnes is back!

The striker will feature as an over-age player in Steve Stone’s side as they play against Sunderland in the first game at their new home venue of the Lancashire FA at Leyland.

Barnes, who underwent hernia surgery in January, is expected to get some minutes in today and again on Friday when the U23s face Newcastle United.

His presence will add some experience to what’s likely to be a youthful side to face the Wearsiders, who may have three former Burnley Academy players in their ranks.

Defender Oliver Younger last week signed a deal at the Stadium of Light to follow forward Will Harris and winger Vinnie Steels, who both joined the Black Cats earlier this summer after leaving Turf Moor.

Sunderland, who finished bottom of the PL2 table last season, will be playing their first game of the new campaign, while the Clarets kicked off with a 3-2 defeat at Wolves last weekend.