I SAID all summer that this time in the Premier League would be different to the last.

I said I did not think we would be relegated this season, and my opinion of that has not had cause to change three games in.

The performance against Manchester United was encouraging Now that manager Sean Dyche has been able to make a few deadline additions, I feel we have a fair side, and a fair squad, to take us through the first half of the season.

I’m sure the trio who have just come in will have to fight for their place, given how well the players did in earning their first point against United.

It’s a result we would have taken beforehand, but we could have had all three points with a bit more luck in front of goal.

Everyone wondered whether it would be a good time or a bad time to face United, given their poor start to the season and the subsequent arrival of British record signing Angel di Maria.

The players handled the occasion well and gave a good account of themselves.

A few especially caught the eye, like David Jones, who had two good chances, Lukas Jutkiewicz, who was denied by the goalkeeper’s legs, and Scott Arfield.

It surprises me that he has again been overlooked for a Scotland call-up, but if I was him I wouldn’t worry about it and just focus on doing well at club level, which I’m sure he is.

I played for the Under 23s once, against Wales up at Aberdeen. I had a good game and got on the scoresheet.

But I never earned a full cap.

Denis Law and Alan Gilzean were regulars. They were very good centre forwards, and I couldn’t work my way in past them.

It’s just one of those things you’ve got to get on with, and I’m sure Scott will. With George Boyd now on Burnley’s books the selectors start taking more notice.

If Scott continues how he’s started, I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before he gets the international recognition he deserves.

As for England, what a weary performance on Wednesday.

He didn’t do anything at Turf Moor and it was the same against Wembley. He just strolled around.

And when you remember that he is picking up £300,000 a week - that’s when you get a bit aggravated. Especially when I recall my first wage was £8 a week!