Lafferty can add another dimension - Eddie Howe

The former Celtic defender, signed from Derry City in January, got his first start in the goal-less draw in the Welsh capital on Sunday, and is in line for a further outing at Ipswich Town tomorrow night.

He has been handed Danny Fox’s old number three shirt, and while he has a job on his hands to replace the Southampton full back, Howe was delighted with the start of his Burnley career: “He is an attacking left back. He loves to get forward similar in the mould of Tripps (Kieran Trippier) really, and to have that on both sides of the pitch I think will give us another dimension.

“It’s been difficult for him because he had a hamstring injury when he came to us so we haven’t really seen him in training, so we sort of threw him in a little bit.

“But I was delighted with how he responded to that challenge at a tough ground, and I’m sure with more games he will improve and get to know the lads better, and I think he will be a good addition.”

Howe, back in the dugout after missing the draw with Crystal Palace on compassionate leave, added: “He can be pleased with his debut. There are areas that he needs to improve but that will be the same for everybody.

“I think it’s a really good first step for him and it will give him a lot of confidence I’m sure to know that he can compete and perform at this level, which we don’t doubt.

“He’s got a lovely left foot and he can chip in with the odd goal as well. Hopefully he’ll be a good signing.”