IRELAND’S JEFF HENDRICK has joined Burnley for a club-record fee believed to be in the region of £10 million (€12 million).
The 24-year-old Dubliner leaves Derby after a six-year spell encompassing over 200 Championship appearances with the Rams, signing for the Clarets on a three-year deal.
The Ireland international moves to the Premier League for the first time having attracted plenty of praise following his performances for his country at Euro 2016.
Hendrick has 25 Ireland caps in total and became a regular in the national team during their Euro 2016 qualification campaign.
Speaking following the move, Hendrick told Burnley’s official website: “The Premier League was a big draw for me and it’s where I aspire to be after the summer I’ve had.
Burnley did so well last year going unbeaten for five months and how much they wanted me this summer was a real positive for me.
“I know there have been a number of bids and I was sitting there waiting for one to be accepted.
I would have preferred it to happen earlier and get to know your team mates and coaching staff a bit more, but I am just thankful it’s done now and I can go away with Ireland knowing my future is settled.
“It’s a little weird signing for a club and not meeting everyone for more than a week, but I am really looking forwards to getting back and training with the lads.”
Manager Sean Dyche, meanwhile, highlighted Hendrick’s strengths: “After a protracted deal, we have got a main target of ours and we welcome Jeff to the club and hope he does well.
“He is someone who can add to our strength in midfield and he’s a player who is still learning and still developing and is someone who we think we can work for us now and in the future.”
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