Town manager Joe Royle says that this week's four-day break in the sun is something his players need with one-third of the league season remaining. The squad jetted off on Sunday night to a holiday island and will return on Wednesday.

Royle told the club site: "It's a long, hard season and we are desperate for a break at the moment.

"The players looked tired at Burnley and we hope that by taking the them away for a few days will help freshen their minds and bodies."

The players have partly funded the trip themselves and will be responsible for doing their own washing while away, and will also pay for their own food.

Royle says he has run similar trips when at his previous clubs: "It's something I have done before.

"It's about trying to break up things at the moment, keeping the players as fresh physically and mentally as possible for the remainder of the season."

One player Royle says is in need of a rest is Fabian Wilnis, who was replaced in the first half at Burnley: "Fabian was not quite right. I could see he was not moving as he should.

"He trained for three days so it seemed right to put him in. He will be better with an extra week's recovery."

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