Burnley interim manager Mike Jackson is embracing the underdog role as his side prepares to face Premier League leaders Arsenal on Monday, describing the clash as a golden "opportunity" to prove their doubters wrong.

Sitting 19th in the table with just four league wins this season, Burnley have struggled to find consistency. However, they showed signs of life last week by snapping a five-game losing streak with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Aston Villa. That result has injected a dose of belief into the squad ahead of their daunting trip to the Emirates.

"When you look at a game like this, you see the importance it holds for everyone in the competition," Jackson said. "But from our perspective, we have to view it as an opportunity to be part of something special. It's a platform to go out and perform. We can't control the noise surrounding these matches, but we can control our effort—just like we did against Aston Villa. We proved last week that we're taking this competition seriously, and that's exactly what we'll do again."

Jackson, who stepped into the interim role after Scott Parker's departure, has made it clear he's not eyeing the permanent position. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the club's long-term plans, he remains focused on the immediate task at hand.

"No, I don't want the job," Jackson stated firmly. "I'm happiest when I'm out on the grass, working with the players. It's a privilege to have this chance to help the club and the squad, and that's what I'll continue to do. Honestly, I've had just one conversation with the chairman since what happened with Scott. Since then, there's been no communication about the future—that's all been happening in the background."

For Burnley fans, Monday's match represents more than just a battle against the league's top team—it's a chance to see their side rise to the occasion. And with Jackson's calm leadership and the team's renewed spirit, they might just have a surprise in store.