Burnley youngster Jimmy Dunne hopes his time on-loan with Accrington Stanley strengthens his first team claims at Turf Moor.
Irishman Dunne is currently on loan at the Wham Stadium and has made seven appearances for John Coleman's side in League Two since joining last month.
“I spoke to Kevin (Long) and he did do similar things," he told the Lancashire Telegraph.
“He went on loan a couple of times and developed himself. He's an Irishman, he's now played for his country and played in the Premier League. He's someone I can look up to.
“There's a pathway there, absolutely."