By Michael Madyira
Burnley FC manager Vincent Kompany has dismissed talk that he could strain his players following an early return for pre-season.
The Clarets are back in training preparing for next term after gaining promotion into the Premier League.
Having concluded their Championship campaign on 8 May, Burnley had a four-week break before reporting for pre-season on Monday.
This has seen forward Lyle Foster being sidelined for Bafana Bafana’s upcoming camp.
“I think it’s normal for us,” Kompany defended his early bird decision on the club’s website.
“We had four weeks off and on top of that we also had the winter break. That was another few weeks as well so I think we’ve had enough holiday for the year, for the season.
“I don’t see why we would work less because we’ve won the league first. We’re just looking forward to getting back. The time we’ve got on the pitch with the players now is invaluable to us.”
The former Manchester City and Belgium defender further justified his call to start preparations early citing the need to be fully fit.
“It’s so important,” he said.
“We’ve got a plan on how we want to be 100% fit and ready by the start of the season but there’s also a development side to this that is really important to us.”
Interestingly, one of their 2023/24 Premier League campaign opponents Manchester City are yet to go for the off-season break.
On Thursday, Burnley flew out to Portugal for a training camp that will last until 16 June.
Pictured above: Burnley FC striker Lyle Foster
Image source: Burnley FC
