CHARLIE Austin hopes his hat-trick can kick-start a strong end to the season for him and Burnley.

The striker led the Clarets’ goal charts in the early part of the season, after establishing an impressive strike partnership with Jay Rodriguez, but has struggled for form since returning from injury in December.

It has led to the former Poole Town predator dipping in and out of the starting line-up, most recently biding his time behind Martin Paterson and Danny Ings following their return from injury.

But after coming off the bench to claim the matchball with a 20-minute flurry, he is ready to take his game on to the next level, and help Burnley send a message to the Championship in their last seven games.

“We’ve got seven games to go and are looking ahead to next season, but we don’t want to lose any games now. If we can go unbeaten, we can push on next year,” said Austin.

“It’s our aim, we’ll give it a good go next season and I don’t see why we can’t be fighting for promotion.”

And the 22-year-old believes he will be a better player for his experiences this year.

“I don’t see why you won’t see the best of me next season, this is my first full year in the Championship and hopefully I can really push on next season,” he said.

“I’ve learned a lot, worked hard and done what I can.

“I’ve got 14 (goals) now, and if I can get any more it’s a bonus.

“But I’ll take my performances so far this season, some have been below par, but you’re not going to perform every game.”

Austin has only started one of his last five games, but accepts that competition for places is strong.

“It’s been frustrating, but what can I do? There are good players at the club, you’ve got to bide your time,” he said.

“I was below-par when I came on against West Ham, but came on (at Portsmouth) and worked hard.

“I think I won nine out of 10 headers and was quite pleased with my performance.

“The goals are an added bonus.”