IT always feels strange when the Clarets are not in action on a Saturday but I do think the break will have done us good.

The break, which came about due to Bolton Wanderers’ continued involvement in the FA Cup, gave boss Sean Dyche and the lads to escape the horrendous UK weather and head to warmer climes.

Dyche chose Alicante and a mix of rest and play in a bid to ensure the squad is refreshed and ready for what is going to be a very important few weeks.

The gaffer also took the chance to run the rule over a transfer target – Lionel Messi – but apparently he didn’t quite live up to the hype!

Joking aside, Dyche and the boys did take in Barcelona’s 1-1 with Levante and I am sure it was great for them to see one of the world’s greatest sides at close range.

All the work and rest is in preparation for our next game, tomorrow night at home to Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Seagulls are one of only two sides to get the better of us this term and Dyche will be looking to right that wrong with a positive result.

Leicester City look like they’re on the verge of running away with it after another win on Saturday and it could be that we’re now in a battle for second place. Not that that is the way Dyche will see it.

In his mind he will still see the top spot as in reach and I am sure after the next three games – Brighton, away at QPR on Saturday and then at home to Millwall the following weekend – we will have a better idea of how the rest of the season may pan out.

There’s still a few days of the transfer window left and I am sure Dyche will be looking at what else is out there in terms of deals (and hoping that clubs don’t come sniffing for the likes of Danny Ings and Kieran Trippier).

Dyche has been very shrewd in the transfer market and we can be assured that he will only bring in players who he thinks can better this squad.

January is a strange time and it may be that those players are not available for one reason or another.

If we don’t manage to bring anyone in then I’m more than confident that the squad we have is capable of maintaining the challenge.

I just hope that push continues tomorrow night.