Hjalmar Ekdal evaluates Burnley’s progress under their new boss

Burnley are slowing but surely edging in the right direction.

That’s the verdict of defender Hjalmar Ekdal, following Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw against QPR.

It makes it back-to-back draws for the new man Fabio Celestini - and while it’s not been particularly pretty or free-flowing, Ekdal is confident the Clarets are laying the groundwork.

“We showed good team spirit,” the 28-year-old told Burnley’s official YouTube channel. “We're fighting all the way through and with a bit of luck, we get away with three points.

“But we know it's a tough game. QPR have been very solid at home, I think their last three games here have been big wins, so to come here and get a point is a good point on the road, so I think we're getting there.”

While Ekdal was pleased with certain aspects of the performance, he’s also realistic enough to know it can still be a lot better.

“I think once again, we defended quite well, so in the end, it's a point and it's alright,” he added.

“But I think the quality can always be better. I think with the ball, we have a lot more to show as a team, but the spirit is there.

“We fight, we run for each other. This league is very tough, so we know what it takes to pick up a point away from home.”

While Celestini is still searching for his first win as Burnley boss, Ekdal has praised the impact he’s made in the week he’s been with the club.

“It's a good start for him,” the centre-back said.

“He's coming with a lot of energy. I think you can tell that he has a lot of energy, it's a lot of happiness in the team, so I think we need that and I think we can use that to win some games.”