SHANE Duffy is eager to force his way into the Burnley side and aid their promotion bid after declaring himself ‘delighted’ to have joined the Clarets on loan.

The 19-year-old centre back joined Burnley on an initial 28-day loan from Everton on transfer deadline day last week and met up with his new team-mates for the first time yesterday.

Duffy was in Portugal with the Republic of Ireland under 21 squad when he learned of the Clarets’ interest in taking him on loan, and he jumped at the chance to gain some first-team experience in the Championship.

The youngster has made two senior appearances for Everton but he remains behind the likes of Phil Jagielka, Sylvain Distin and Johnny Heitinga in the pecking order at Goodison Park, and is keen to get some match action at Burnley.

“At Everton there are world class centre halves there ahead of me so it’s difficult, but I am learning off the best,” said Duffy.

“It would be great if I could play here and help keep some clean sheets.

“I was away on international duty and got a call to say Burnley wanted to take me on loan, so I was delighted to come.

“It’s a big club and I’m delighted to be here. It’s about trying to improve myself, get some experience and obviously try and help the team.

“Looking at the league table and where the team is, obviously they are going for promotion.

“Hopefully I can help and we can go on and get into the play-offs.”