Veteran striker Robbie Blake believes Burnley can take the first step towards safety on Wednesday when they face Stoke.

A victory would lift the team out of the relegation zone and give the players a welcome boost ahead of a further home game against fellow strugglers Wolves on Saturday.

Burnley have been written off already by many pundits and tipped for a quick return to the Coca-Cola Championship.

But Blake, 34, is adamant they can prove their critics wrong.

He said: "People are writing us off but there are 10 games to go. It is a bit harsh.

"We are not expected to stay in this league but we know we are good enough to do that.

"It's the teams in and around us who are under pressure. We have just got to believe in ourselves.

"We always create chances and score goals. We have good attacking players. That's what we have got to build on.

"It is a massive week. It is pivotal in the season. If we can get three points against Stoke it will set us up nicely for Wolves.

"We know we are good enough to turn teams over at home. We have got to attack them from the start. If we do that we will get the result we want."

Blake knows they will have their work cut out against a Stoke side he claims are under-rated.

"They don't get the recognition they deserve, " said Blake. "They have players who can pass the ball.

"They are a very difficult side to beat but as well as that they play football. We are aware it will be very competitive."

Striker Steven Fletcher faces a late fitness test ahead of the game after missing the defeat by Arsenal at the weekend.

Fletcher suffered a broken hand while on international duty with Scotland and could play with a cast.

He has weighed in with 11 goals in all competitions after arriving from Hibernian in the summer for a club record £3million.

While Fletcher remains a concern, manager Brian Laws is pleased to have midfielder Graham Alexander and striker Martin Paterson back after injury.

Laws believes Alexander, 38, and Paterson 22, bring different, enduring qualities to the team.

"Paterson is an enthusiastic player. He is a lad who would chase an empty crisp packet on a windy day, " said the Burnley boss. "He has that enthusiasm which spreads to everyone.

"No matter what position he plays in, he gives that impression he would go through a brick wall for you. From a manager's point of view that is fantastic.

"Alexander has the experience and know-how. He is not going to chase the empty crisp packet because he cannot. But he senses danger and you cannot put a price on that."