DWIGHT McNeil does not have to look too far for inspiration and advice.

The teenager has thrived in the Burnley side since coming into the starting XI against West Ham last month.

His inclusion has corresponded with a four-game winning streak for the Clarets, which they will aim to extend in Saturday's Premier League clash at Watford.

And winger McNeil, who was released by Manchester United at 14, is not short of people to turn too in his bid to keep improving.

Teammates Tom Heaton and Phil Bardsley are two others who started their careers at Old Trafford and had to leave in search of first team opportunities, a path McNeil is now following, while the 19-year-old's dad Matty was a footballer in the lower leagues, playing for Stockport County and Macclesfield among others.

“When I was younger he always guided me," said the Clarets youngster of his dad's impact.

"He still guides me now and tells me where I need to improve. He is always there to support me.

"He thought his football (in the lower divisions) was a bit tougher but that I’m handling it really well. It’s really nice to have him there guiding me through it.”

McNeil joined Burnley after his release from United and is determined to make the most of the chance afforded to him by Turf boss Sean Dyche.

"It’s given me more drive, to keep doing well," he said.

On having the experienced Heaton and Bardsley to turn too, McNeil added: "You speak to them about it and they tell you what they have gone through.

"They help you along the way, on and off the pitch which is something really good to have.

"When you are that young you have a lot of time on your hands so you have to keep going.

"If you want to play football you’ve got to keep going. Then when I’ve got my chance I can’t get too ahead of myself, I’ve got to keep my feet on the ground and take it game by game."

McNeil has impressed Clarets supporters with his direct running and goal threat, having netted against West Ham and provided an assist in the win at Huddersfield.

He was man of the match in the FA Cup win over Barnsley and produced another strong display in the victory over Fulham last time out.

“It was tough, especially in the second half but we got through it," he said of the win over the Cottagers.

"It’s been a dream come true and I think I’ve taken my chance really well.

"I haven’t changed my game at all coming from the Under-23s to the first team. I’ve been told to just do what I do."

McNeil has made his impact on the left of midfield, profiting from injuries to Aaron Lennon, Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Robbie Brady's suspension.

And if the teenage prospect can come even remotely close to matching the achievements of his childhood hero then Burnley have a player on their hands.

“The one I really looked up to was Ryan Giggs, he was my main idol when I was younger and I always wanted to be like him," said McNeil.

"I am trying (to model my game on him) but still have a lot to improve.

"I have to take it game by game really and just try to keep the shirt."