MARLON Beresford received a gigantic vote of confidence from Clarets chief Chris Waddle before today's Second Division kick-off at Watford.

Burnley's first choice goalkeeper is under pressure for Turf Moor's green jersey after the arrival of ex-England and Glasgow Rangers international Chris Woods.

Waddle said: "I happen to think that Marlon Beresford is the best goalkeeper in Division Two. I do honestly believe that.

"Arsenal came in for him and tried to buy Marlon for £1.5 million three years ago.

"Arsenal don't buy mugs and that showed just how much Marlon is rated.

"Without a shadow of a doubt he is in the wrong division. Marlon Beresford is a First Division goalkeeper."

Waddle believes the extra competition provided by Woods' presence will keep Beresford - now starting his sixth season at Turf Moor - firmly on his toes.

The player-boss added: "Now he has got Chris Woods breathing down his neck we will see a different Marlon Beresford.

"He has probably got a little complacent with nobody threatening his place but I'm hoping for great things from Marlon Beresford this season.

"He had a very good pre-season and appeared confident and sharp."

Assistant manager Glenn Roeder added: "Chris Woods has got stature in the game and he will put pressure on Marlon.

"I worked with Chris Woods in the early stages of his career at QPR and he will be thinking how and when can I get that shirt off Marlon Beresford's back.

"That sort of pressure will either make Marlon or break him."

Boundary Clarets' "Meet the Manager" night at the Centre Spot on Monday raised £250 for Burnley General Hospital.

Burnley open their Pontins League campaign against Blackpool at Bloomfield Road on Wednesday (7pm)

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