Clarets ace Graham Branch is revelling in the left wing-back berth that could give him a big role to play in Burnley's promotion campaign.

Branch has played in a variety of positions for the Clarets this season, including a spell as a stand-in striker.

The left wing probably remains his most natural position but playing as a wing-back brings out some of the best attributes in the former Tranmere and Stockport man.

"If I'm getting a lot of the ball then I think the wing is my best, but it's good coming from deep," he said.

"The gaffer has played me at left-back and wing-back which gives me opportunities to run with the ball which I enjoy doing.

"There are just a couple of times when I've played on the left when I haven't been in the game that much and it's very frustrating.

"You're expected to get the ball, beat three men and put a good cross in and you can't do it if you're getting touches every now and then.

"But if I keep plugging away everything will work out fine, I'm sure."

Branch's latest opportunity came last Saturday against Bristol Rovers when he replaced Gordon Armstrong mid-way through the first half when his pace was used to nullify the threat of Mark Walters and give Burnley greater penetration going forward. Ironically defending became his number one priority following the dismissal of Andy Payton and Branch, helped by being good in the air, handled the situation well.

That performance may well have earned him a starting slot at Bournemouth this afternoon with manager Stan Ternent able to go for attacking wide players in Branch and Glen Little, safe in the knowledge that Steve Davis, Mitchell Thomas and former Bournemouth skipper Ian Cox would be able to keep it tight at the back.

The Clarets were looking for a much-needed away win to stay in touch with leaders Preston and Bristol Rovers and third-placed Wigan Athletic, who come to Turf Moor next Saturday.

A good result today coupled with a win over the Latics would confirm Burnley as serious promotion candidates and Branch is optimistic about the Clarets' prospects.

He added: "This month or so is a very important time for us. Most of the top teams have got to come to our place and we seem very good at home, so the omens are good for us.

"We've just got to keep plugging away, work well together and keep playing the way we have been at home and we will beat those top teams.

"There's no doubt about it, we've got the players in our squad to do that." Meanwhile, Cox went into today's game at Dean Court with a glowing endorsement from Bournemouth boss Mel Machin ringing in his ears.

Machin, who sold the defender to Burnley for £500,000 last Friday to bring in some much-needed cash, said: "I am sure he will get a good reception. I will be very surprised if he doesn't because he did a terrific job for us.

"I know the fans here are very knowledgeable and they will certainly recognise the service Ian gave to the club when he was here.

"His record was absolutely amazing. He was one of those players who would play, even if he had a little injury, week-in, week-out which just goes to show the type of character he is.

In the other dug-out, Ternent was set to have reserve team boss Mick Docherty alongside him again as assistant manager Sam Ellis continues his recovery from a back problem.

Burnley have a limited number of tickets for the game at Colchester on Saturday, February 26.

Standing tickets cost £9 and £5 for concessions and seating tickets are £11 and £7. They are available to season-ticket holders until next Thursday at 5pm with voucher 'M'. Any remaining tickets will go on sale the following day.

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