STEVE Cotterill has decribed Gifton Noel-Williams as one of Burnley's brightest' footballers - insisting there is more to the big man's game than scoring goals.

With leading marksman Andy Gray sidelined with a foot injury until February, Noel-Williams has assumed responsibility as the Clarets' elder statesman in attack.

And although goals have not been flowing for the former Stoke and Watford hitman, his work-rate and commitment to the cause have been second to none.

Cotterill considered Noel-Williams his man-of-the-match in last Saturday's 2-2 draw against Sunderland - despite Kyle Lafferty bagging a brace - and the Burnley boss has been delighted with the giant striker.

"The one thing about Gifton is that he's a team player. He's not selfish," said Cotterill.

"He's probably one of our brightest footballers. He sees pictures and understands the game.

"Sometimes he can be misunderstood, like he probably was earlier in his career at Burnley.

"But in our supporters' defence, I would say rightly so because Gifton has been a lot better this year than he was last year.

"He's fitter this year, which is a big important factor in his game and I think he's realised that now.

"When we do our runs that we do at the beginning of the week, Gifton is far better now than he's ever been since he's been here.

"That's reflected in his performances. He's been able to get around the park more and subsequently, he's led the line pretty well for us, not just in Andy's absence but when Andy has played as well.

"There's been quite a few times when Gifton has been the star man on the day. So we are delighted with his efforts."

Noel-Williams and Lafferty have been presented the task of firing the goals to keep Burnley in play-off contention until Gray returns from his triple-metatarsal break to his right foot.

Lafferty has led the way, blasting a late goal at Ipswich before last Saturday's double salvo over the Black Cats.

But as the 19-year-old Northern Ireland international continues his fine progress at club level, Cotterill is determined to keep the teenager's feet on the ground.

Cotterill said: "Everybody is talking about Kyle so I have to be a little bit careful about what I say.

"Certain parts of me does not want him reading and listening to what everybody is saying about him because then he might think he is better than what he is.

"He then might come up against somebody that's playing better than him and put him in his place.

"I love young players coming through, but you've got to make sure you keep them in check."