Wait almost over for Clarets on Eckersley fee

The two clubs attended an independent tribunal yesterday which sat to decide a fee for Eckersley, who joined the Clarets in July on a four-year deal after allowing his contract at Old Trafford to expire.

The tribunal committee will inform Burnley and United of its verdict in the next few days.

Burnley manager Brian Laws said: "We had a very good hearing and put our case across.

"We remain hopeful of a positive outcome, but we must now await the verdict."

Salford-born Eckersley, 20, made his senior debut for United last season after progressing through the club's youth ranks. He has made three appearances for Burnley this campaign, although has yet to feature for the Clarets in the Barclays Premier League.

Wigan have confirmed midfielder Ben Watson has moved to West Brom on loan until the end of the season.

Watson joins the Baggies having already spent three months on loan at fellow Coca-Cola Championship side QPR earlier in the season.

The 24-year-old returned to the DW Stadium in January and scored in the 2-2 draw at Notts County in the FA Cup fourth round.

However, Watson – who joined the Latics from Crystal Palace last season – has not featured at all in the Premier League this campaign.