RONNIE Jepson knows he has a lot to learn as a coach but he claimed: "I have got some great teachers."

The 38-year-old, who took over as Clarets reserve team coach this week, said: "With the gaffer, Sam Ellis, Mick Docherty and Terry Pashley I know I will get all the help I need."

Jepson moved into the coaching side at Turf Moor after hanging up his boots last season and he is loving every minute of it.

Born in Stoke, Jepson started his career at Port Vale and went on to play at Peterborough, Preston, Exeter, Huddersfield, Bury, Oldham and finally Burnley, scoring 86 league goals in 354 appearances. Now he is ready to turn his attention to the training ground.

"Like a lot of players now I have taken my coaching badges but just because you pass them does not mean you are a coach," he said. "If you pass your driving test you are not suddenly a good driver.

"It can be hard to get a break but I have been lucky to be in the right place at the right time. What I need now is experience.

"I know I have a lot to learn but I am lucky to be working with good people. I have been with the gaffer for five years and he is there to help although he has got a big enough job working with the first team."

And it is providing a squad of players strong enough to support the first team that is Jepson's main priority.

He said: "The reserve team is an important part of any club be it getting players fit to return to the first team or bringing on young lads so they can challenge for a place in the league side.

"You can never plan your team in advance as it depends what the gaffer wants but we are committed to playing in the same way as the first team so anyone who does come through can easily slip into the side."

Having so recently retired from playing Jepson admitted he still kicks every ball from the sideline and he spent his first match in charge, against Wrexham on Wednesday, standing on the touchline shouting instructions and support.

"I still love being involved in training, even when it is chucking down like it did this week," he said.

"I try to pass on what I can to the lads and get them playing the right way.

"We are a first division club now and the important thing is to know how to pass the ball and keep it."

And as he works with the younger players he is delighted that he has so many good role models to point to.

"If someone is a bit sullen or a bit down about things I just look around the training ground and point out people like Kevin Ball and Mitchell Thomas.

"They turn up everyday with a spot on attitude and set a great example. On Wednesday night I had Mitchell in the side with the likes of John Mullin, Lennie Johnrose and Mark McGregor and playing with those guys is great for the youngsters."

Jepson's side does not have another scheduled game until next month but he will be ready to field a side if Stan Ternent wants to arrange a friendly.

"That is a matter for the gaffer but we have a lot of first team games coming up and you don't want to run the risk of injuring players in a reserve game," said Jepson.