Shaun Cooper is delighted to take charge of Burnley's U21 team.

Cooper set his sights on continuing Carl Fletcher's work after being appointed Cherries U21s boss until the end of the season.

Reflecting on his new role, the former Portsmouth and Crawley defender told the club website: “I'm very excited. The challenges ahead are to carry on as the boys were.

“Fletch did a very good job and prepared the boys for a career in the game, so nothing changes there.

“We are looking to develop the youngsters and me as a coach.

“I was assistant to Al (Alan Connell) in the under-18s and that was very helpful in getting more exposure with the older players.

“It was a full-time role and I was leading the under-14s as well.

“There are different requirements as you move up the age groups, you can prepare the players slightly differently."