Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri says it is vital his side get a result at relegation rivals Burnley on Saturday.

The Cottagers go into the game in 19th spot in the Premier League table with 14 points after 21 games – four points adrift of safety.

The Clarets are one of three teams level on 18 points and Ranieri says the game at Turf Moor is a clash Fulham simply cannot afford to lose. “I’m positive because I believe in this team and this club,” said Ranieri.

“But also Burnley think, ‘if we kill Fulham we go up’ and for this reason, I think it’s a crucial match. Believe me, at the moment I never look at the table because I know where we are, staying under water and I want to go up.”

Fulham are 3.10 to win on Saturday and a 2-0 victory for Ranieri’s men is priced at 13.00.

Ranieri took charge of Fulham in November following the sacking of Slavisa Jokanovic and the January transfer window is his first opportunity to put his own stamp on the squad.

The former Chelsea and Leicester boss is looking to strengthen in the winter window and he says his focus is on adding experience.

He added: “I think we have to sign somebody to survive. It would also be a good boost for all my players.

“We have a very good team, but without experience. We need somebody who has experience, a leader with good character, that’s his personality, then we can improve.”