Jay gets Burnley deal

Last updated : 29 April 2007 By Tony Scholes

Jay Rodriguez - wins a professional contract

Jay is one of seven players coming out of their apprenticeships but is the only one to have been offered a deal. He's had two successful seasons and has scored a few goals, including two each in the wins over Franchise and Luton in the FA Youth Cup run this season.

I don't think anyone who was at the Arbories in Padiham will forget his second goal in the second of those wins, an amazing dipping shot from well over 35-yards that gave the Luton goalkeeper no chance.

Jay will be delighted to have won himself a deal but it is a sad time for the others who will be saying their goodbyes to Burnley Football Club. They are Ali Akbar, Tom Blackler, Paul Casey, Jack Overson, Connor Smith and Dale Underwood.

Ali was injured in the last match of the Youth Alliance League season and for some of these others it has been a difficult time with injuries. Jack Overson has struggled almost throughout his apprenticeship whilst Tom Blackler suffered an injury at the end of last season that almost brought his playing career to an end.

We congratulate Jay on reaching his first target in winning a professional deal, but at the same time we wish those who are leaving Burnley all the very best in the future, and hope they are all able to get fixed up with new clubs before the start of next season.