Burnley owner Alan Pace responds to fan frustration

“What hurts you, hurts me too”.

Those are the words of Burnley chairman Alan Pace, responding to growing frustration and anger amongst Clarets fans following the club’s poor start to the season.

The Burnley owner wrote the words in his programme notes ahead of this afternoon’s important clash against Derby County, which it’s understood he will be attending.

After seven games, Nicky Hayen’s side - still without a win - prop up the Championship table, while John Eustace’s Rams also occupy a place in the bottom three.

Hayen, who is already coming under pressure just two months after his appointment, has described today’s game as “must-win”.

Burnley’s horror start has only heightened fears among the club’s fanbase, who have been left concerned by a wide range of issues - even before this season got underway.

“Firstly, I want to acknowledge that it's been a challenging few weeks and I'm aware there is frustration,” Pace penned.

“Naturally, I'm disappointed to arrive at today's game in the position we are in the table. Everybody wants to see positive performances and results. However, football often throws up challenges that you have to adapt to.

“I understand what this club means to so many of you, and what it's meant for generations before you. I don't take the responsibility I have as custodian lightly. In fact, what hurts you, hurts me too.

“I attended the Fan Advisory Board meeting at Turf Moor on Wednesday night, alongside Kyle [Walker], to talk through supporters’ concerns and this was the message I reiterated to the group.

“We've had a significant amount of change in recent times and it will take time to click. We welcomed Nicky in the summer, and we have new signings finding their feet and several players were looking forward to seeing come back from injury.

“I firmly believe that we'll be in a better position in time, and while I appreciate your frustrations, we will persevere and we will get there.

“It's been good to see some of the senior players travelling with the group recently. The impact players such as Josh Cullen and Ashley Barnes have on the team cannot be underestimated. They know what it means to play for Burnley and that message is key during a difficult period.

“I'm also pleased to welcome Jamie Vardy. A goalscorer through and through, Jamie's record speaks for itself, and he'll bring a huge amount of experience, a strong mentality and confidence into the squad.”

Pace added: “Finally, every single one of us plays a part in what happens next. I know we need to see a team playing for each other and playing for you, the fans. Playing with pride and passion.

“What I ask of you is that we unite and show the togetherness that this town and Burnley Football Club stand for.”