ALAN Harper admits he was combing the odd grey hair after two weeks as Burnley's youth team coach !

Harper successfully stepped into the breach after Terry Pashley was appointed as Clive Middlemass' right hand man and admits he enjoyed every minute of the experience.

But now, with old Evertonian mate Adrian Heath in charge at Turf Moor, Harper predicts Heath will prove a sure-fire hit. Both Harper and Heath enjoyed three spells under mentor Howard Kendall.

And Harper says that prosperous experience will assist Heath as he starts his management career at Burnley.

"You learn a lot from Howard and Adrian is a quick learner. I would tip my old mate to be a success as a manager, " observed Harper.

"As a player you draw experience from each manager you work under. I'm sure Adrian will use that experience from his playing days and that short spell under Howard at Sheffield United.

"One of Howard Kendall's biggest assets was his man-management skill. Adrian is the same and management is a natural progression for him." Harper says he would jump at the chance to coach full-time in the game if the right opportunity arrived.

" I enjoyed every minute of coaching the kids at Burnley and it something I would like to pursue long-term. I was going grey after a fortnight," he joked.

But seriously, it was a great experience.

"Adrian Heath's arrival has made a big difference. There is no doubt about that. He is hard but fair in the dressing room.

"But he presence has brought a great buzz to the club and his enthusiasm is rubbing off on everybody.

"He is bringing his own ideas to the club and I think the players have responded. They respect that.

"It is a difficult time for him to come in in many respects. But I'm sure he has the ability to succeed.

"He is already looking towards next season and there will be changes in the summer. He will give everybody a chance. But if they don't respond then they'll be out."

Heath was planning his first Burnley start since he was appointed player-manager three weeks ago at Wycombe Wanderers tomorrow. Harper added: " He has great knowledge of the game and I'm sure he will turn things round.

"He has brought a couple of new players in, with Charlie Bishop and Paul Mahorn arriving yesterday. New faces always give everybody a lift and they will add tothe managers overall options.

"It is a learning process for the manager. But the main thing is that we are playing a lot more football under Adrian Heath. That will stand us in good stead for next season.

Wycombe Wanderers manager: Alan Smith.

Last three home games: L, W, W.

Did you know: Burnley make their first ever visit to Adams Park tomorrow.

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