Vincent Kompany has led Burnley back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, following a 2-1 win at Middlesbrough in Friday night’s Championship action.
The Clarets have been the dominant force in the English second-tier since the Belgian tactician arrived Turf Moor after their relegation from the top-flight last term after six consecutive seasons.
Long-serving forward Ashley Barnes gave Burnley the lead in the 12th minute before Anglo-Nigerian forward Chuba Akpom equalised for Boro at the start of the second half for his 26th Championship goal of the season.
Burnley’s moment of glory came in the 66th minute when another Anglo-Nigerian, Nathan Tella, fed Conor Roberts for the winner and Kompany stated special memories have been made by Friday’s result.
“I’m really pleased, I’m happy for the players and all the staff, everyone involved this season,” the former Manchester City said on the club website.
“We’ve made memories, special memories on a special night here. I can’t really put into words right now the emotions and the feeling of it.
“It’s hard to rank this feeling. Outstanding, amazing, these moments I have known in the past but today really was special.
“I loved the moment just travelling on the bus, getting here, the game, everything about it was just so good.
“Although, we don’t have the trophy, they have to have something in their hands at the end of the season for a reward.
“But I know what this means to everyone at this Club. Burnley are back in the Premier League and it’s special.”
Promotion back to the #PL at the first attempt! ????
We'll see you soon, @BurnleyOfficial! Congratulations! pic.twitter.com/eMagjOLgM8
— Premier League (@premierleague) April 7, 2023
Kompany went on to stress there was unfinished business as Burnley are yet to win the Championship and has put his focus on Monday’s home tie with second-placed Sheffield.
“The job is not finished yet for us. Tomorrow I will be all in on Sheffield United and all my focus will be on that and tonight will feel like a memory,” he continued.
“I had my moment tonight watching on as the team celebrated with the fans, it was amazing and I would love it to be electric on Monday, we need them once again.”
Burnley lead Sheffield United by nine points while Luton Town, Middlesbrough, Millwall and Blackburn Rovers occupy the promotion-playoff spots.
