A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Alan’s notes ahead of today’s game

Good afternoon and welcome to Turf Moor for today’s game against Newcastle United.

It’s our penultimate home game of the campaign and I’m looking forward to what I’m sure is going to be a great match.

I was pleased to secure a point at Old Trafford last Saturday and thought we were unlucky not to come away with all three, in what was a really positive performance. We looked bright, created good chances and Aro made some fantastic saves at a challenging ground to visit.

Unfortunately, after the game some of you may have seen offensive footage circulating on social media of an individual in the away end.

As a club we welcome the swift action from Greater Manchester Police, Lancashire Police and Manchester United.

There is no place for tragedy related gesturing and chanting in our game. We have a zero-tolerance for such behaviour, and anyone found guilty will receive the strongest ban possible.

I want to make it clear that individuals who engage in such actions do not represent our club or our fans.

Today is our first home game since we learned the news that club legend Leighton James passed away aged 71.

The many tributes and stories shared, on the news of his passing, are a real testament to Leighton’s character and highlight the special mark he left on this football club. There’s a chance to take a trip down memory lane in today’s programme, with a feature on Leighton’s playing career and contribution to the club.

The thoughts of everybody connected to Burnley FC are with his family and friends at this sad time.

Today is also a special date in the calendar for Burnley FC in the Community who are hosting the annual Charity Dinner & End of Season Player Awards in Manchester this evening.

It’s a wonderful event that really captures and celebrates the fantastic work the charity carries out every day, as well as offering the opportunity to award some of the incredible community participants for the important role they play.

There’s a huge amount of hard work and planning that goes into events such as this. I’m sure it’ll all come together, and fingers crossed a fantastic amount is raised on the night!

I’ve been delighted with many of our recent performances and one defeat in eight shows just how far the team have come. Now we have three massive games to go and we’re going to give it our all. It’s the final push and we’re going to need everyone.

Together we can do this. UTC!

Alan

@AlanPaceBFC

The Chairman’s programme notes can be found in today’s matchday programme, which is available to purchase at the game or online here.