STEVEN Thompson admits that consistency is the key to the Clarets’ promotion bid.

Burnley put their Championship charge on the backburner as they prepare to take on top flight strugglers West Ham in the fifth round of the FA Cup at Upton Park on Monday night.

But they head to London high on confidence following a three match league unbeaten streak that has Eddie Howe’s side resurrect their once-flagging top six hopes.

After their cup exploits, the Clarets will hope to continue their good run of form when they return to league action in Saturday’s Lancashire derby at rock bottom Preston North End.

It is a game that Burnley must win to keep their promotion hopes alive, and striker Thompson is desperate to help his side add to their recent run of results.

“The lads have strung three positive results together in a row now and we’ll be looking to add to that,” said the former Scotland international.

“Consistency has been a big problem, we’ve got the players, we’ve got the squad, but to get out of this league, consistency is the be all and end all.

“Everybody gets a lift when a new manager comes in, and it’s natural for people to raise their game, but his standards are high, and we’re looking to maintain the standards we’ve set ourselves in the last three games.”

Thompson added: “It’s important we kept up our momentum, and taking four out of six points is a good return, on the back of our win against Norwich before that.

“We’re building momentum and looking forward. This is the first time certainly I’ve felt we’re really picking up a bit of speed here.”