BRENDAN Flood has revealed that Burnley are in the market for a tough-guy enforcer as the Clarets bid to get their wavering season back on track.

The club's operational director insists manager Owen Coyle will be provided sufficient resources to bring in 'two or three' quality players in the January transfer window, and also promised that the Clarets do not have to sell their best players to bankroll new signings.

Coyle has already confirmed one of his transfer priorites - a dominant centre-half - after seeing his side ship 12 goals in their last seven Championship matches.

And as the Clarets try to end a dire run of six league games without a win - which has seen them slide down the table - Flood has stressed the importance of adding greater physical presence to the squad.

Their physical shortcomings were brutally exposed on New Year's Day when out-battled by Blackpool in a 3-0 defeat.

"We looked tired, but Blackpool were more physical and we've got to be ready for when we come up against these harder' sides," said Flood.

"They are not as football-orientated as we are. They tend to throw it about a bit more.

"We've got a skilful squad but in certain games, we've got to have a different strategy and show more strength.

"It's unfortunate that we are missing certain physical players - Clarke Carlisle, Michael Duff, and even Besart Berisha is a tough cookie. Once they are back, I think it will be different.

"With all the suspensions we've got, people must think we have the hardest team in the league!

"But we recognise that we haven't got the biggest side in midfield, and not got the fastest forward line, and we've got to look at those areas.

"Owen is the first to recognise that. Now he's got the opportunity to do a bit of wheeling and dealing, and he's opening his eyes to see where he can improve the squad. I'm sure we can bring in two or three players."

While Coyle will be provided adequate funds to strengthen his squad, Flood has revealed that Burnley will endeavour to make greater use of the loan market.

He added: "We have got be a bit more open-minded to quality loan players.

"It has worked well for teams like Stoke and others in the top six. Owen is very much on top of that.

"But we would finance signings if it was the right player for Burnley.

"We are not going to be shy about our ambitions - and that's to do better every year."