Clarets back in Premier League at first time of asking

Burnley are promoted with a record seven games to go

Burnley enjoyed a successful season last year as they sealed promotion back to the Premier League
Author: Richard MuriePublished 8th Apr 2023

Burnley FC are a Premier League side again - after just one season out of the top flight.

Their 2-1 win at Middlesbrough last night means they're guaranteed to go up, with a record seven games to spare.

It's the first season in charge at Turf Moor for boss Vincent Kompany who said: "I'm pleased and happy for the players. It's a very special feeling, we have made memories today.

"We still don't have the silverware, but we have made memories. There is already one milestone that has been achieved, and one achievement that cannot be taken away from us.

"I am really happy for the club and for everybody involved. This is special. I still have to say that the best moment will be if we get the trophy, and that is not the case yet.

"But for this club it already means what it means - next year, Burnley will be in the Premier League and Turf Moor will host the best teams in the world. That is something to be proud of."

Kompany's main priority now is to ensure Burnley finish the season as champions, and he will then turn his attention towards planning for life in the top flight.

The Clarets moved onto 87 points with Friday's win, 11 points clear of second-placed Sheffield United and 19 above Luton in third.

Kompany added: "We don't have to be ready (for the Premier League) now. We're still in April, so we have another three months to make sure that everything is ready.

"We want to have a good time in the Premier League, and we want to compete. We have three months to plan, and I don't think we have to fear that. We'll embrace it.

"It's a great achievement to have won promotion with seven games to go. I've experienced it twice before in my career where you're pulling away and the next four or five games are about really enjoying it and showing the best version of yourself.

"It's a really special feeling because you never get to enjoy it as much as in those moments."

The Bishop of Burnley, Philip North, has congratulated the Clarets

Bishop of Burnley, Rt Rev. Philip North, has offered his 'warmest congratulations'.

A huge football fan himself, Bishop Philip said: "I am delighted to see Burnley promoted once again to the Premier League.

"My warmest congratulations to Vincent Kompany and all the players and staff at the club on the magnificent achievement of making such a speedy return to the Premier League.

"Since becoming Bishop of Burnley eight years ago, it has been my privilege to get to know the club and all it stands for really well.

"Burnley FC sits at the heart of its local community - literally and figuratively. Their amazing support comes from dedicated fans of all ages; it’s a real family club.

"I have also seen first-hand as Bishop how the club offers support to schools and community groups.

"Their journey over recent years has seen some highs and lows … but the club always bounces back.

"And now Burnley FC has put the widest smile on the faces of everyone in the town once again.

"As a long-term football fan myself, I’m aware of the power of football to bring people together and bring genuine pride to a local area.

"Burnley is already a premier town and we can now look forward to having a Premier League football team once again."

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