Russell Anderson believes he faces a stiff challenge to force his way into the Burnley back line for the weekend visit of former club Plymouth.

A quirk of fate could see the Sunderland defender, who saw out last season on loan with Argyle, make his Clarets debut against the Pilgrims at the weekend.

But Anderson, who was an unused substitute in Tuesday night's Carling Cup second round victory over Oldham Athletic, is ready for the fight.

The loan signing said: "The manager only has 11 players to choose from and I am no different to anyone else.

"The performance on Tuesday night has shown me it's going to be difficult to get in there, but it's something I am looking forward to."

He added: "I've heard some good things about the manager and obviously about the boys, so I am keen to come and get started properly.

"My first training session will be Thursday morning, so I'm looking forward to it."

There will be a more detailed interview with Russell on Wednesday morning, with a Clarets World EXCLUSIVE video for subscribers.