White smoke as Pope extends stay
When goalkeeper Nick Pope came on as a substitute for Tom Heaton in the 1-0 home win against Crystal Palace it was his first taste of league action since playing against the Clarets for Charlton Athletic on the day we clinched the Championship title.
He moved to Burnley that summer on a three year deal but had been consigned to cup appearances and only became second choice when Paul Robinson suffered an injury last season. He’s now, through Tom’s injury, stepped up to become first choice and has kept further clean sheets in his last two games against Huddersfield and Everton.
“We were already in discussions with Nick before he had the chance to start the games he has done recently and we’re pleased they have been finalised,” Sean Dyche said after the club confirmed Pope had signed a deal until the end of the 2019/20 season with an option for a further year.
“He had been working hard to continue his development out of the team,” Dyche added. “He is continuing that since he got into the side and we look forward to him progressing further as an important member of the squad.”
Pope said after completing the deal: “I’m delighted to sign a new contract and extend my stay here. I’ve been really happy since I signed last year, so I’m really pleased to get it done.
“We are still growing as a club and I’m growing as a player. That’s what I wanted to do when I first signed.”
Speaking about his recent elevation into the first team, he added: “It’s been lucky on my part how it’s come about, a bit by default, but I’ve really enjoyed it since I’ve been in the team. The lads in front of me have been excellent and helped me a lot, especially the two centre-halves.
“It’s been a good few weeks for me personally as well. Everyone at the club is happy we’ve made a good start and we’ve got to build on that now.”
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