RYAN Christie shared how Cherries are viewing the upcoming FA Cup tie with Burnley this weekend as an opportunity to return to winning ways, rather than a welcome distraction from their league woes.

Scottish international Christie played 76 minutes as Cherries were downed 3-0 by Manchester United last time out, stretching their run of a games without a win – and a goal – to four since returning from the mid-season break caused by the World Cup.

Relegated from the Premier League last term, Burnley have become a different beast under Vincent Kompany, the former Manchester City defender installing a new Guardiola-esque playing style at Turf Moor.

The conversion from the pragmatic approach Burnley operated under Sean Dyche to Kompany’s ideas of playing football has paid off for the Clarets, who currently top the second tier.

Burnley are undefeated in the league since the resumption of the top two tiers, with the Clarets’ only loss in December a defeat at Old Trafford in the Carabao Cup.

Keen to get back to winning ways as quickly as possible, Christie told the Daily Echo: “I don't think it matters, what the competition is.

“I think the boys will just be excited that there's a new game to focus on and hopefully bounce back.

“The quicker we can get a positive result, the better, because I think we all know that we're capable of putting another run together like we did when the gaffer first stepped in and was in charge.

“So that's obviously the focus. I think that the competition (it is) is irrelevant.”

Asked if he was aware of the Clarets’ dramatic change in tactical styles over the summer, Christie shared: “Absolutely.

“I think any time I’ve watched them, they’ve played top football and there's no secret about that.

“Everybody's been talking about it and proof is in the pudding in where they sit in the Championship right now.

“So obviously we know it's a tough game, but if anything, that will prepare us for the Premier League games after it coming up.”

Christie also had a word for the Cherries faithful that followed their team up and down the country over the festive fixture list.

Cherries faced three successive away midweeks trips since the restart, supporters taking in the sights of Newcastle, London, and Manchester as their side lost all three games.

“Looking forward to it,” continued Christie.

“Looking forward to playing back at home, hopefully getting a win for the fans.

“I've got to say, to be fair to them, the last few away games they’ve traveled and have been absolutely incredible for us.

“So now time for us to give them something to cheer about.”