Vokes delight as forward commits future to Burnley

Sam Vokes insists he has always been “fully committed” to Burnley after signing a new three-year deal.

The Wales forward, who would have been out of contract at the end of the current campaign, has committed himself to the Clarets until the summer of 2021.

The 29-year-old is relishing the prospect of at least another three seasons at Turf Moor.

“I was always focused and fully committed to the cause, whether I was up in the summer or not,” Vokes told Clarets Player HD.

“But I suppose to have that security now is great for myself and my family and I’ll look forward to the next three years.

“It’s been a huge part of my career. I joined here on loan first in 2011, so it’s been seven brilliant seasons.

“There have been ups and down, mainly ups, and it’s been a great journey. It’s one we’re still on and I can’t wait for the rest.

“The ambition when I joined was to play in the Premier League, which is where we are.”

Vokes moved to Burnley from Wolves on a permanent deal in July 2012 following a successful loan spell the previous season.

“On a personal note, I suppose I was a bit of a journey-man before I came here, after going on loan a few times from Wolverhampton, and I felt at home when I joined,” he said.

“I definitely feel at home here now. It’s been a great club to be part of. The family feel at home and it’s a great place to be.”

Vokes scored Burnley’s first goal in Europe for 51 years during a Europa League tie at Aberdeen in July.

The former Bournemouth, Leeds and Brighton forward has hit two goals in his last three Premier League appearances, as well as being on target for Wales in their recent defeat by Spain in Cardiff.

Burnley boss Sean Dyche said on the club website: “Sam has earned the right to be considered a big figure here.

“He has become more resilient as the years have gone on and that’s a real maturity that has come in during the time he’s been with us.

“He has affected games in so many ways. Whether he’s started or come off the bench, he has delivered and that’s a real credit to him.”

Vokes will be hoping to retain his place in the side for Sunday’s Premier League match against Chelsea at Turf Moor.

Winger Robbie Brady comes into contention for the first time this season after a hamstring problem delayed his comeback from a serious knee injury.

Aaron Lennon, though, has been laid low by a sickness bug, so will be monitored ahead of the clash with the Blues.

Whatever team he puts out, Dyche knows they cannot afford to take their eye off Chelsea’s man-of-the-moment Eden Hazard.

The Clarets boss said at a press conference: “He continues to improve I think and he’s continued to show that again this season.

“We certainly don’t rely on what might happen with one player, but you’ve got
to be aware of how good some of those players are and he (Hazard) is certainly
right up there.”