JON Harley is gearing up for a crucial month convinced that Burnley's bad luck is about to change.

The Clarets defender had a frustrating start to life at Turf Moor, seeing new team mates Wayne Thomas and Garreth O'Connor sent off and he is yet to taste victory after playing two games at left back.

But Harley, 25, insisted: "The bad luck can't last. I think it's been the story of Burnley's season so far, not really getting what they deserve, but things will even itself out over the season.

"On my debut against Derby we should have got something more out of the game, and at Reading we felt we deserved something, so if we can carry that on, our luck's going to change.

"The last week or so has been a bit of a shock and I've not really known what's happening. But although the last couple of games haven't been great, I think there's been signs of some decent football being played and hopefully we can kick on from there."

Harley, a virtual ever-present for the Blades until securing his £75,000 move to Burnley - a deal that will double dependent on appearances - admits he was surprised to be made surplus to requirements at Bramall Lane.

But the former Chelsea and Fulham defender, who has also spent time on loan at West Ham United, now aims to put down firm roots and help the Clarets bloom under Steve Cotterill.

He said: "For football reasons, I'm really happy with the move.

"I didn't ideally want to see out another year and then be a free agent. I always want to play so I spoke to the gaffer here and he convinced me.

"He showed me round and we had a little chat about football and what he wants to achieve, and it was clear how ambitious he is.

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