ANDY Farrell has backed the Clarets to build on their success ahead of the 2017/18 campaign, despite being handed a daunting start to the season.

The fixtures released yesterday see Burnley away at champions Chelsea on the opening day, followed by trips to Tottenham, Liverpool, Everton and Manchester City.

But the Clarets have an easier beginning at Turf Moor, not hosting a top nine side from last season until November 25 when Arsenal visit.

“I looked at the home games and thought they looked okay,” said Farrell, a former Burnley midfielder and the club’s current development squad assistant manager.

“The away games are tough, but at least you know what you’ve got to do once you’ve played those sides early. I think we’re getting better every year, the players get used to the level of it and the pace of it.

“I think we’re improving every year, we can get a couple of players in to build on what we’ve got and I can’t see a problem.”

Farrell, who returned to the coaching staff at Turf Moor six years ago having played 331 times for the club. believes boss Sean Dyche and his staff have helped forge a close-knit squad at Turf Moor that has played a major part in Burnley’s success in recent seasons.

“If you’re talking about close knit, the gaffer has got a really good group there, they’re a really good bunch of lads, all down to earth, they will do anything for you,” the 51-year-old added.

“They’re hard working and have great attitudes. A successful team will have that work ethic, attitude and togetherness about them and I think we can build on it again this year.

“Sean is very good and he’s got a good group around him as well in terms of the staff, Ian (Woan) and Tony (Loughlan), and Mark Howard on the sports science side, it’s a really good group.”

Having returned to Burnley in a youth coaching role Farrell was assistant to Michael Jolley for the Under-23 side last season.

Jolley left the club this week to take over as manager at AFC Eskilstuna, who currently sit bottom of the Swedish top flight.

And Farrell was sorry to see him go, but is confident he can make an impact now he has taken a top job.

“I’ve been working with Michael this year and I think he’s very, very good. He’s been very good with me in terms of helping me develop as a coach,” he said.

“He’s got some good qualities about him, he’s a very confident lad and I’m hoping he’s very successful in what he does and I think he will be.

“He knows the game, he’s got a good head on his shoulders, so hopefully he is very successful.

“His first game is Malmo. You know where you’re at when you play the top team, and there’s only way after that.

“I think he’ll do well and I wish him all the best.”