ALAN Mahon insists Burnley will look to put things right by showing no mercy against rock-bottom Preston tomorrow.

The Irish midfielder was as disappointed as the rest of the Clarets squad after stumbling against lowly QPR in midweek.

Tuesday's 2-0 shock defeat threw an unexpected spoke in the Clarets wheels after stunning away wins at Watford, Charlton and Wolves had presented them with a golden opportunity of climbing into the play-offs.

But tomorrow's Lancashire derby at Turf Moor offers Owen Coyle's men the chance to quickly rectify matters, and Mahon can't wait to get stuck into the Lilywhites.

"It's a big game for the fans and a big one for the players as well," said the Clarets playmaker.

"We've forgotten about Tuesday, the game is gone now as far as we're concerned. Our main aim is getting back to winning ways and putting things right.

"It's strange to see Preston down there because they are a big club. But that's the ups and downs of football, it can change quickly.

"But as long as Burnley get three points tomorrow, I'm not too bothered about Preston.

"They are a good team and a good club, but I'm not concerned about how they are getting on."

Mahon added: "There's always an extra pinch with derby games. I've been fortunate enough to have played in a few of them.

"But it's always nice to play in them, you always get a buzz the week before and there's always a buzz the day before the game.

"Obviously, it's a big day for the fans as well and we understand that. We will be doing our utmost to get a result."

As Mahon looks forward to his seventh consecutive appearance for the Clarets - so long as he shakes off a slight thigh problem - the former Wigan and Blackburn midfielder admits he is enjoying a new lease of life under boss Coyle.

The Dubliner has started every game since Coyle took charge three weeks ago, having made just five starts under former Clarets boss Steve Cotterill this term.

Mahon said: "I'm glad to be back playing. The main reason I came to Burnley was to play regular league football and as many games as possible.

"Unfortunately, it wasn't happening for me when Steve (Cotterill) was here, for whatever reasons.

"But the gaffer has come in and given me a chance, and I'm determined to keep the jersey. As long as I'm playing, I'm a happy man.

"I'm just enjoying playing football. The gaffer has come in and brought a whole new air of positiveness and confidence to the club, and that's been reflected in the way we've been playing. As a group, we're enjoying every game.

"He's come in and brought positiveness to the club. He does not believe in negative thoughts and that spurs the players on together.

"It makes us work harder and it's always positive. There's no negative issues, which I think is needed, and was needed."