THE step up from the Konica League of Wales to the hurly-burly of the Football League is a gigantic one.

But Andy Cooke seems to be coping fairly well, thank you. Cooke's recent substitute appearances have caught the eye of avid Turf Moor watchers.

His clinical finish against Notts County underlined how much the bustling 21-year-old centre-forward has developed in those few short months since the Shrewsbury-born lad made the demanding transition from non-league to the professional ranks.

A promising Clarets debut at Southport in the Marsden Lancashire Cup was followed by a league strike in the 1-1 draw at York City in September.

And now, like the rest of the squad, he is looking forward to the Clarets' FA Cup clash with Walsall at Turf Moor tonight.

Cooke gives manager Jimmy Mullen an extra option on the bench and a different dimension in attack when called on.

"When I first arrived I struggled with various knocks and niggles but now I seem to be getting into my stride," admitted Andy. "The main thing I've found is that the pace is a lot quicker and that takes a bit of adapting to. But I've become fitter and stronger and the lads in the first team squad are always there to give you advice.

"That is a very important thing when you are a young player. They can tell you your mistakes and point different things out."

Added Andy: "I'm adapting and I've enjoyed playing alongside Kurt Nogan when I've had the chance. He always seems to find a special touch to set you up. My main aim is to claim a regular place in the first team at Burnley. I will continue to work hard to get myself a settled place in the side."

Cooke banged in 30 goals for Newtown last season, a feat which took the mid-Wales club to the verge of European qualification.

In the process it earned Cooke the tag: "The new Steve Bull". But the youngster owes a fair debt to Newtown manager Brian Coyne and assistant Jake King.

The duo rescued Cooke's career after he was released by Telford United at the end of the 1992-93 campaign.

"I know there were a lot of clubs checking on Andy Cooke but Burnley were the first club to make a genuine move," said Mr Coyne.

"It is great to see him doing so well and we are all delighted for him. He is a terrific young prospect and I'm sure he will be a big asset to Burnley."

For manager Jimmy Mullen, Cooke's emergence is another feather in the Burnley scouting cap.

Chief scout Brian Miller tracked the player for several months before securing the deal last May.

Mullen observed: "Andy Cooke has done ever so well. He has a lot of very good qualities for a young footballer and most of all he is keen to do well." "First, he is a good listener and is a very attentive boy. He wants to learn. He wants to improve his game.

"His attitude is first class and the lad has a good head on his shoulders. That is a great asset if you want to make the grade.

"He has responded very well to full-time coaching and training. I think that has been reflected in his play generally."

Added Mullen: "He has a good physique for a striker. He is big, strong and brave with a terrific eye for goal. His form of late has given me real food for thought.

"Andy has gone in there and proved he can handle it. I believe the belief we have shown in him has come to fruition.

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