Close to leaving Burnley in the summer, Steven Defour changed his mind when Sean Dyche started bringing in players to change the way the team moved the ball around the pitch.
Currently seventh in the Premier League, a few points off a Europa League spot, the Clarets have had a fantastic season, one in which the Belgium international played a vital a part until his knee injury suffered against Manchester United.
Now recovering, the 30-year-old is only thinking about getting back on the pitch at Turf Moor, but vowed he wouldn’t skip any steps in the process to ensure he plays until he’s 35.
With just one year left on his deal at Burnley, there could have been a worry this might be his last season before moving on, but Defour was keen, when speaking to DH, to allay fears.
He said: “I have the option of an extra year, which will be triggered, and who knows, I might extend my contract for a few more years. My agent will meet the board this summer. We’re well on our way to qualify for the Europa, which hasn’t been done since the 60s”.
Happy at Burnley, even though he lives in Manchester, the Belgium international has managed to win over fans, but he’s not entirely sure why.
He continued: “The manager changed his style of play. We play more football now, how I like it. The fans love me. They sing my song sometimes during a game. Why do they like me? Maybe my international career, and my few nice goals.
“If I hadn’t been injured, I would have been in the running for the player of the year. With my injury, maybe I’ll be in the top five”.
Since you’re staying, there’s always next year, Steven.
