Vokes backs Clarets’ squad depth to see them to safety

Burnley striker Sam Vokes believes his squad’s strength in depth will aid the Clarets’ bid to avoid relegation in the coming weeks.

The Clarets are seven points clear of the drop zone with 35 points after beating Stoke City 1-0 on Tuesday night.

And Vokes, who made just his second league start since December 14 against the Potters, is determined to make the most of his chance now he is back in the side with team mates Andre Gray and Ashley Barnes also competing for places in the side.

Burnley face a trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday and Sean Dyche’s side will know just how hard they are fighting to retain their Premier League status having been in a similar position two years ago.

(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

“There is a lot of competition and Dre and Barnesy have been doing well so it was nice to get the shout,” said Vokes.

“Obviously when I get the shout it’s all about working hard and trying to keep that place. There’s lots of competition and it’s a squad thing to try and see this job out.

“We fully believe in the dressing room that we’ve got enough to stay up and this win reassures that. We’ve still got a job to do to finish it but that win takes us a long way.

“That’s what it’s all about this time of year. People will be looking elsewhere at other results but for us we’ve just got to put points on the board.”