THE victory over Lancashire rivals Blackpool on Saturday maintained our two points per game ratio to propel Burnley back to the top of the league in time for Christmas.

Just how good is that? It’s not just good – it’s brilliant.

Both goals were top drawer, fit to grace any Premier League match.

Danny Ings’ confident strike from the training ground move raised his stock even more, and Scott Arfield’s curving placement was simply sensational.

For the first time in many years it would seem that we have at last got our home form back. That solid run has proved to be the backbone of our ascent to the number one spot in the Championship and will be crucial in the second half of the season.

Now with four games within the next 10 days it’s going to be a severe test of our squad resources.

Our first choice XI are a match for anyone in this division, but as we have seen when just one key player is unavailable we are less effective.

So how are your Yuletide preparations going?

Christmas shopping done, presents wrapped, beer chilling in the fridge, the turkey defrosted and a copy of the TV Times by the remote control?

Then I reckon you are just about ready for the big day tomorrow.

But as always at this time of year let us spare a thought for the less fortunate souls amongst us. Those that will be substituting the festive bird for a Pot Noodle at Christmas dinner, before being forced out to face the harsh wintry elements on Christmas Day.

Yes folks, welcome to my world! Thanks to the randomness of the Football League computer, after exhaustive inquiries in my location, the only way I can be sure of getting up to the Middlesbrough game on Boxing Day is to take four days to get there and back.

As a non-driver my reliance upon public transport hits the buffers after around 9pm on Christmas Eve when it all comes to a sudden stop.

So myself and travelling companion Pete Read will spend that day in a Travelodge in Durham as part of our four day round trip to the Riverside!

A Merry Claret Christmas to you all!