BURNLEY chief executive Paul Fletcher believes the balance of power in East Lancashire could be about to shift for the first time in over two decades.

Blackburn Rovers have held the upper hand over the Clarets since the early 1980s. Burnley have not beaten their bitter rivals in a competitive match since April 1979.

But when the two teams meet in the top flight for the first time in 43 years this month, Fletcher is confident Owen Coyle’s side can take the bragging rights back to Turf Moor.

“If nothing else I think Burnley fans have been waiting more than 30 years for this game probably more than any other,” said the 58-year-old, who scored in the Clarets’ 1978 Boxing Day win, the season they completed a memorable Division Two double over Blackburn.

The return fixture at Ewood Park, in April 1979, was the last time the Clarets were derby winners, and Rovers’ relegation season.

“Blackburn Rovers came on leaps and bounds under the Jack Walker influence, and good luck to them for that! They’ve marched ahead of Burnley, but it’s always nice to have the chance to redress that balance,” said Fletcher.

“We have plenty of players who aren’t looking out of place in the Premier League, and we’re looking forward to it.

“I think it’s probably more important for the fans than it was or is for the players.

“The local derbies, to me, were never much different than any other game, apart from the build-up the supporters gave it.

“It’s an extra feather in your cap if you win, but to me it was just another game.

“Of course I remember scoring with my beloved left foot – although it’s not quite as good as Steven Fletcher’s!” added the Turf Moor chief after his namesake opened his Premier League account with the opener in Saturday’s 2-1 home win over Birmingham.

“It has special ramifications, winning or scoring against Blackburn Rovers!”