DEFENDER Stephen Jordan believes Burnley can hold their nerve as the Championship draws to a dramatic climax.

With just six games to go, and a four-point cushion inside the top six, the fifth-placed Clarets are in a strong position to extend their season and earn a place in the play-offs.

Burnley head to Derby County on Saturday hoping to continue the winning trend they enjoyed before the two-week international break. And Jordan is confident they have got what it takes to go the distance, because, he feels, an alternative outcome does not bear thinking about.

“The Carling and FA Cup runs were nice and they brought some glamour to the table, but if we don’t make the play-offs it will still feel like a huge let down,” said the 27-year-old.

“Making the play-offs is the only goal and, if we do, we know that over two legs we can come out on top.

“I think the Carling Cup run, disappointing as it all ended, can still help us in that.

“Beating teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham and Tottenham has instilled a real belief in the players here that we can play against anyone and give them a game.

“In my book, this club is definitely ready to take the big step into the Premier League now.

“I think we have shown that beyond a shadow of doubt with our results this season and, in terms of where we want to be, everything is there for us if we want it.

“We have played most of the teams in and around us and beaten them all at one stage.

“We know we are better than them and now we have to hold our nerve and show our qualities against the so-called lesser teams.”

The former Manchester City full back currently finds himself waiting in the wings for a starting place following injury, and the subsequent form of summer signing Christian Kalvenes.

But he admits that level of competition has been healthy for the squad this season, while also revealing the personal benefits.

“It’s been a real battle to hold down the left back slot and I suppose that’s good competition for the team, which can only be good for the club, so long may it continue!” he said.

“I suppose it all started with the Reading game at home back in October.

“I started at centre back that day and Christian, who was at left back, got injured.

“After that, I was fortunate enough to hold down my place at left back and I’ve really enjoyed it this season.

“I have played well over 30 games, which might surprise some people, but I feel I have played okay.

“I feel I have flourished here, both as a player and as a person.

“I’ve had a good season so far and hopefully there’s a fairytale ending because I still feel my career is on an upwards curve, especially with the season we’ve just had.

“It has been unbelievable for the club as a whole and the lads individually.

“The general consensus is this is the best season most of the lads have ever had, but there’s still unfinished business.”