AS THE much derided Elton Welsby once remarked: "There's a real buzz around Turf Moor."

What a weekend. Paul Gascoigne signs for Burnley (now there's a phrase I never thought I'd write), David Johnson scores on his debut and the Clarets record a massive derby victory to move up to fourth.

Throw in the story about a cheeky streaker being rugby tackled by an eight foot cloth bee and you've just about got the perfect football weekend.

The capture of the lachrymose Gascoigne says many things. It speaks of ambition, imagination and excitement.

Financially, the player's wages will be more than covered by the revenue generated by increased attendance and commercial spin-offs.

The timing of the deal is also spot-on. The club, players and supporters need a lift for the last push. And what a lift.

Whilst the much travelled Geordie may no longer be a world beater, there is no doubt that he has more than enough in his game to be outstanding at this level.

That David Moyes and vice-chairman Bill Kenwright reportedly pleaded with Gazza to stay at Goodison speaks volumes.

Provided the 34-year-old is fit and sharp -- and he insists this is the case -- he should provide Burnley with a massive boost in the run-in.

His range of passing, coupled with that most lethal of weapons - the defence-splitting ball - is just what Burnley need.

Indeed, the prospect of a midfield containing the creative talents of Glen Little and Paul Gascoigne should send shockwaves through the defences of those teams the Clarets have yet to face.

One player who should be delighted at Gazza's arrival is David Johnson.

His searing pace (both mentally and physically) almost made Ian Moore look pedestrian by comparison.

Making one goal and scoring another, he destroyed the lumbering Sean Gregan, and is just the sort of player who would thrive on Gascoigne's creativity.

If, as reported, the £3.5 million rated Johnson is available on a free, and provided his wage demands are not outlandish, he would be an excellent addition to the squad.

Just as important as winning the bragging rights over Preston, is the gap which has opened up.

North End are now five points off the play off pace, leaving the Clarets to battle it out with West Brom, Coventry, Millwall and Birmingham for a much coveted play-off position.

Happily, our fate lies in our own hands and with the impetus brought to the club in the shape of Gascoigne we should, as Ternent is fond of remarking, be 'there or thereabouts' come season's end.