BURNLEY striker Michael Ricketts plans to use Ade Akinbiyi as a benchmark for success during his Turf Moor loan spell.

Ricketts, signed as a direct replacement for Akinbiyi in the January transfer window, hit the ground running with the only goal in Saturday's victory over Plymouth Argyle.

And before he returns to Leeds United in the summer, the former England international is out to soften the blow of seeing the Clarets 14-goal cult hero sold in a club record £1million sale to Sheffield United.

Ricketts, 27, said: "I am following in the footsteps of Ade Akinbiyi here and if anyone is a benchmark then he is, even though we are two completely different players.

"You can't help but look at the achievements of someone else who has had their critics and say fair play to you'.

"I am nothing like Ade as a player, but I still believe in my ability.

"I scored goals on loan at Cardiff earlier this season and I am just hoping that I can get a good run of games here, stay fit and prove myself."