JON Harley has warned Aston Villa that Burnley can bridge the gap between Premiership and Championship tonight.

The Clarets head for Villa Park aiming for a repeat of last year's Carling Cup third round victory over David O'Leary's stuttering side.

And Harley feels the underdog status will suit Steve Cotterill's side at a ground where Villa have won just one of their last nine games.

"Villa are a good Premiership side, but we are not bad either and we feel we can go there and achieve something," insisted Harley.

"There is a difference between the Premiership and our league, but if you look at the three teams promoted last year, two of them (Wigan and West Ham) are doing really well.

"That shows that although there is a difference, it's not as big as everyone seems to think."

Harley, who enjoyed spells in the top flight with Chelsea and Fulham, added: "I think people are quick to criticise the Championship, but I agree with those who say it's the best league around at the moment because it's so open.

"If you look at Chelsea, they are running away with the Premiership and even in the Italian and Spanish leagues you can name the top two or three teams before every season.

"In the Championship it's impossible to call because anyone can beat anyone and all the teams are evenly matched.

"Obviously playing away to a Premiership side is a challenge, but we are definitely looking forward to it and we are confident that if we play as we can, we can get a result."