Defensive values key to Burnley's ascent - Parker

Scott Parker has overseen nine wins from 18 games in all competitions as Burnley boss

Burnley's recent revival in form is a credit to their defensive values, boss Scott Parker has said.

The Clarets beat managerless Coventry City 2-0 at Turf Moor on Tuesday, which moved them into the Championship's automatic promotion spots.

Parker's side are now level on points with third-placed Sunderland but moved above them on goal difference, having conceded just six times in 17 games - the best defensive record across England's top four divisions.

"I've been around some time managing and coaching teams. Fundamentally this team have got some core values and they give you a foundation to win games, really," he told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"I don't just put it down to the back five, I put it down to the whole team. If you're a striker in this team or a winger in this team, in certain moments we defend as a whole unit and you can see that very clearly."

The Clarets had a dip in form over October and into the beginning of November which saw them go four games without a win - with their goalless draw at West Bromwich Albion cutting them four points adrift of the top two.

Since then, they have won three in a row and, including the result at The Hawthorns, have kept four clean sheets in succession.

"It gives you a foundation and platform in a game," Parker added. "Did I expect the solidness that we have? Maybe not, but in saying that in the same breath I do because there's certain things installed in this group that they're taking on board and I understand it really.

"To a man, the starting XI and the subs coming on, we all understand their roles and responsibilities in their position and I think you're seeing that."