Burnley defender Kyle Walker has urged his team-mates to quickly put relegation behind them as they aim to secure an immediate return to the Premier League.
The Clarets ended last season in 19th place in the top division. They will open their Championship campaign at home against West Ham on Sunday, with both clubs having been relegated in 2025-26.
Burnley also suffered relegation from the Premier League in 2021-22 and 2023-24, but on each occasion they earned promotion back at the first opportunity.
Walker, the 36-year-old former England international, believes everyone at the club must avoid dwelling on their disappointment if they want to return to the highest level.
Speaking during the EFL launch event in Manchester, he said he was looking forward to a new personal challenge but stressed that Burnley’s priority was to regain their Premier League status.
He acknowledged that the club had experienced both success and setbacks, adding that returning to the top flight and establishing itself there was important because of its contribution to the wider community.
Walker highlighted the importance of a strong mindset, saying the players must move on from relegation and be fully focused from the opening minute of the new campaign.
He added that the squad had a responsibility to themselves, their fellow players and the supporters who stand behind the club.
Burnley recorded only four victories in the top flight last season and ended the campaign 19 points behind Tottenham, who finished 17th.
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