BORN-AGAIN footballer Graham Branch says he is playing for his future at Burnley.

But he believes the task of earning a new contract at the end of the season should be made easier now he's got the backing of supporters.

Branch, a centre forward by trade, has won over the Turf Moor faithful since settling into his new role at left back. And such a response has helped bring back his love of football.

"I was a bit disappointed at the start of the season, I had a few niggles and it's very hard to be 100 per cent when you're in and out. But I kept myself fit and the fans are brilliant with me now," said Branch, whose contract runs out at the end of the season.

"It's good to hear them saying nice things about me and, when I make a mistake they're not on my back and I hear positive things from the crowd. I don't feel any pressure and I'm enjoying every game I play.

"The gaffer's very happy with the way I'm playing and he's the one I've got to impress because he'll be the one I've got to try to get a contract off at the end of the season."

He added: "I haven't enjoyed my football this much for a long time."

Switching to fullback came as something of a culture shock to the 30-year-old, who signed for the Clarets on a free transfer from Stockport County in December 1998.

But he has grown accustomed to his new position and says his pace has helped him to adjust.

"I enjoyed my time playing up front but I don't mind playing left back," he said.

"I got to a stage where I had to get used to playing there because that's where the gaffer wants to play me.

"I am enjoying it and that's probably the reason why my football has improved a bit. I've finally decided now that I've just got to get on with it, even though it's not my favoured position."

He added: "There aren't that many people quicker than me, hopefully, so it adds to your game, especially when you're caught out of position, which sometimes I am because I'm a bit naive in that position.

"But I've always got the pace to get back into position, so my pace helps an awful lot, especially in the modern game."

And after a welcome upturn in form, Branch believes Burnley's five-game unbeaten run can go from strength to strength.

"We're capable of getting on a good run," he said.

"Sometimes we're capable of letting stupid goals in. We've let in some ridiculous goals.

"But, having said that, when we get the football down and we play we're a very good side. And we're a bit stronger at the back now so hopefully we'll be conceding less."

He added: "Saturday's going to be a tough game at Crystal Palace because they're flying now. But we always do well against them when we go down there so hopefully we'll be able to do well again on Saturday."