Clarets midfielder Lenny Johnrose is backing Burnley's young side to grow stronger on the basis of their battle to beat the drop this season.

The 34-year-old has been impressed with the Clarets young guns since his return to the club on transfer deadline day last month.

And while he admits they are being forced through a steep learning curve, he feels the benefits in the long-term could be great for Burnley.

"The club has got some quality players, but a lot of them are young," said Johnrose, who returned to Turf Moor after being released in 2002 via spells with Third Division outfits Bury and Swansea City.

"For many of them this is the first relegation fight they have ever been involved in and some of them really are having to struggle to handle it.

"But it is a big career experience for them and you can bet that they will all work hard to ensure they don't have to experience the same again.

"What they will learn is that you have to not only go out and prove yourself, but prove yourself again and again."

Of the youngsters Johnrose has worked with since his return, he has been hugely impressed by England under-19 international Richard Chaplow.

The pair played alongside one another in Tuesday night's 2-0 win over Wimbledon and Johnrose thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

"Richard is a good player, with some very good touches," said Johnrose.

"It was good to play alongside him and hopefully we will finish the season playing together - we will have to see.

"It wasn't an easy game because obviously it was important for us to get a win, but I really enjoyed the game and getting a full run out from the start."

But Johnrose has sensed that the current Clarets dressing room is aware that the pressure is on.

"I must admit I sensed a little tension when I got back, but that is not always a bad thing," said Johnrose. "Before the game on Tuesday night the dressing room was quiet, but we went out and got the job done.

"Down at Cardiff last Saturday the boys were noisy in the dressing room beforehand, but we lost - so it is just a matter of how you apply yourself once you get out on the pitch."