Burnley sign Nugent and Cork on loan

Nugent had been expected to remain at Burnley (GETTY IMAGES)

Portsmouth striker David Nugent has extended his loan deal at Burnley until the end of the season.

Nugent has been on loan at Turf Moor since the start of the season and was due to return to Fratton Park but Portsmouth were keen to keep the England striker off their wage bill given the poor financial state of the club.

The 24-year-old, who has one international cap, has scored three times in 21 appearances for the Clarets.

Although the striker was signed by former manager Owen Coyle, current boss Brian Laws has used the former Preston striker on a regular basis since his appointment last month.

Nugent's decision to stay at Turf Moor is a welcome boost for Laws, whose side are third from bottom and without a win since he took over.

Laws has already brought in Frederic Nimani, Nicky Weaver, Leon Cort and Danny Fox and also hopes to complete another deal before the transfer window closes at 5pm.

Laws has also signed Jack Cork on loan from Chelsea until the end of the season.

The versatile England Under-21 international finished a similar spell at Coca-Cola Championship side Coventry in December.

Manager Chris Coleman was keen to retain Cork's services, especially as he can play right-back as well as in midfield.

However Cork, son of former Wimbledon striker Alan, has opted to move to Burnley.

Cork signed a three-year deal at Stamford Bridge in August and has also had loan spells with Southampton, Watford, Scunthorpe and Bournemouth.