Burnley shouldn’t have let their 28-year-old midfield star leave for free and here’s why

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Why Burnley shouldn’t have let Jeff Hendrick leave the club

Republic of Ireland midfielder Jeff Hendrick, after a four-year stay at Burnley, has left the club after failing to agree on a new contract. He is now a free agent. Burnley have also released Joe Hart, Aaron Lennon and Adam Legzdins.

The 28-year-old midfielder started his footballing career in his hometown at the St. Kevin’s Boys FC before joining Derby County’s youth team. In 2010, the player was moved to the first-team. With time, he became a regular at Derby County, making 200+ appearances across six seasons.

Jeff Hendrick of Burnley holds off Enda Stevens of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Burnley FC at Bramall Lane on November 02, 2019 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Getty Images)
Jeff Hendrick of Burnley holds off Enda Stevens of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Burnley FC at Bramall Lane on November 02, 2019 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Getty Images)

Hendrick then moved to Burnley on a four-year deal which the player has seen out. During his time,  he scored ten goals and seven assists across all competitions. Hendrick has been one of the key members at Burnley, having made 139 appearances across four seasons.

The box-to-box midfielder had been the club’s most trusted midfielder ever since his arrival and offered a wide range of qualities. This is something that went well with Dyche’s plans.

The number of goals or assists over four seasons might not look impressive but Hendrick was indeed an invaluable asset to the midfield.

His all-round abilities added steel to the midfield and was a right fit for the club. The technically sound player will definitely be missed by the club.

Jeff Hendrick celebrates after scoring (Getty Images)
Jeff Hendrick celebrates after scoring (Getty Images)

The Irish international was a great asset to the club. Hendrick had the versatility to operate anywhere across the midfield also showed good passing skills. The player was tasked with recycling possession in an advanced position and did that very well.

Hendrick was definitely a star at the club and fans would agree that he should have been retained by the club. In Burnley’s defense, the club is going through a very tough time and is one of the worst-hit clubs due to the pandemic.

The chairman issued a warning that the club could run out of money by August if things don’t get better. The player could prove to be a smart signing for any club that chooses to acquire his services.