Burnley midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has admitted that his side faces a difficult challenge when they host Chelsea at Turf Moor in Saturday afternoon's Premier League clash.

Ugochukwu, who joined the Clarets from Chelsea during the summer transfer window, has quickly established himself as a key player for Scott Parker's men, contributing two goals and one assist in ten league appearances so far. 

The 21-year-old, nephew of former Super Eagles defender Onyekachi Apam, is set to face his former club for the first time since moving away in the summer.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Ugochukwu said he is looking forward to the occasion but expects a stiff battle against the Blues.

"I'm feeling excited. It'll be the first time I've faced them, so I can't wait," he told Burnley's official webpage.

"I came back on Wednesday, so we've been working very hard. We're focused on the game now and I just want to do my best."

He acknowledged Chelsea's quality, labelling them one of the strongest sides in the Premier League.

"It's a big game; there's no doubt in terms of the quality that Chelsea has. It's a very good team in England and they're the world champions, so it's going to be a tough game."

However, the midfielder insisted that Burnley will not be easily swept aside, especially on home soil.

"But I think when you come to Turf Moor and you play against us it's always difficult and we always try and do our best to make it hard, so it won't be easy for them."

Ugochukwu also praised the strong mentality within the Burnley squad, pointing to the balance of experience and youth driving their performances this season.

"When you have players like Kyle Walker who has great experience in the Prem, and you bring the young lads as well it's good.

"It's the best league in the world and here at Burnley everyone has the mentality to make it in this league. Everyone works hard every day." 

Chelsea will be aiming for maximum points to close the gap on Manchester City and Arsenal at the top end of the table, while Burnley seek a positive result to push themselves further away from the relegation zone.

Adeyemi Adewale