Burnley wing-back Ian Maatsen believes there is a healthy mix of youth and experience at Turf Moor this season.
The 20-year-old has already started seven league games for the Clarets since arriving on loan from Chelsea over the summer.
Maatsen was one of many new signings brought in by Vincent Kompany over the summer and is delighted to have a manager who puts his trust in young players.
He also feels Burnley’s experienced core have played a big role in helping the youngsters settle in at Turf Moor.
“I think it is always good to have young players like me to give the energy to the team, but also a mixture of experienced players who have been at the club longer,” he said.
“With the new manager, a little bit has changed but the older players know what is expected from the club. They pass it on to us.
“For us young players, it is just to give everything and as soon as you touch the line, just give 100 per cent. It is really helpful.
“It is good that the manager has trust in all players. It gives us an extra boost as young players to push each other to the highest level on the pitch and in training.”
Maatsen is no stranger to the Championship, having impressed during a loan spell at Coventry City last season.
The Chelsea loanee has so far made the most of his opportunities to get forward and join the attack in Kompany’s system, already providing a couple of assists.
“It is really good to have a team like this. We have got good players and high standards with what we do on the ball. The way we train is the way we want to play in games,” he added.
“My position is a good one for myself and my team-mates. I feel comfortable in this role and confident to get forward and help the team out where needed.”
Maatsen represented the Netherlands Under-21s during the international break, coming up against Burnley team-mate Anass Zaroury in a 2-1 win against Belgium.
“We won,” he said with a wry smile. “It is always nice to have a little competition between each other, but it was nice to see him play for country.
“It is always nice to represent your country and to wear their shirt, but I am back here now and getting ready for another big game this weekend.”
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