EX-CLARET Kevin Russell has urged Burnley not to be bullied into Premier League submission.

The latest defeat on their travels against Portsmouth, another of Russell’s former clubs, has led to increased warnings that Burnley risk relegation unless they tighten up on their travels.

But Russell, who spent a season with the Clarets in 1993, believes Owen Coyle’s men should be praised, not criticised, for their attacking ambitions.

And he credits the Burnley manager with making the Premier League more watchable this season.

“He (Coyle) is very positive in the way he tries to play. He goes out to win every football game at times and you’ve got to admire him. It’s refreshing,” said the 43-year-old.

“The Premier League, in the last couple of years, was coming to the stage where it was getting a little bit stale. It’s opened out a bit more this year and it’s a lot more entertaining.

“A lot of teams now are forcing the issue, and Owen Coyle is one of the top ambassadors for that.

“Even in the (Carling) cup run last season, when they were in the Championship taking on Premier League teams, he was very attacking.

“And at the end of the day it’s got them where they need to be.

“I’ve seen quite a few of the games and I’ve been impressed with them, especially at home.

“They’ve played really well.”

And Russell believes that after five wins from a possible seven so far this season, their Turf Moor fortress can continue to stand them in good stead.

“Fratton Park can be an intimidating place to play. The crowd can be in your face and on top of you, and Turf Moor – although more modern – is similar,” he said.

“They are the type of football clubs that are well supported, and they are similar in that their fans are working class people and passionate about their club.

“The punters at Burnley are brilliant. That’s the biggest thing about the football club, the local support. Everyone in the area supports the team, and there aren’t many places where you can say that.”

And the former striker is hopeful they can defy their doubters to become an established Premier League team.

“If Burnley can stay up this year and the year after they will be okay,” he said.

“The hardest thing is getting through the first two years unscathed.”