NEW loan signing Paul Cook believes Burnley can take inspiration from rivals in distress Macclesfield to plot their escape route from the Second Division relegation zone.

A 1-0 derby defeat by Preston yesterday left the Clarets in the bottom four.

But Cook sees Macclesfield, who are off the foot of the table thanks to successive wins over Gillingham and Colchester, as a classic example of how swiftly fortunes can be changed.

He said: "A week ago Macclesfield were relegated.

"Two wins later and all of a sudden they are thinking they can get out of it. A week's a long time.

"We have got to apply ourselves in the same way."

Cook's performance against Preston, following a loan move from Stockport County, was just one of a number of reasons to suggest that the Clarets can arrest their slide down the table.

"Without being critical, I think Preston had one shot at goal in 90 minutes football," added the midfielder.

"For a team in Preston's position, and they are a good side, to have one shot against us obviously the lads have done something quite well.

"We have hit the bar and the post and had one cleared off the line but what you have got to do it stick at it.

"It's not just going to go right for you, it's going to take a lot of hard work and I think the lads are prepared to do that."

And just as important as a much improved performance by Burnley was the positive reaction of their followers.

"The supporters just want to see people work. They aren't stupid. If they see us having a go, they'll respect the limitations of the side or anything like that.

"If the lads have a go I think people will stand by you," said Cook.

"Not many people gave us a chance of winning and I'm disappointed that we didn't.

"But I think we proved we can compete. And if you do win a game or two the confidence that gives players is frightening and you are all upbeat to push on to better things."

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