Burnley's Zian Flemming returns to training after US pre-season tour absence

Star striker Zian Flemming has returned to pre-season training with Burnley after missing the recent US tour.

The 27-year-old has been pictured with his Clarets teammates on their return to their Gawthorpe base this morning.

The Dutchman, Burnley’s top goalscorer last season with 12 goals in all competitions, didn’t travel Stateside as Nicky Hayen’s side played three friendlies.

Flemming’s absence prompted speculation the forward could be set to depart this summer, having already been linked with a move back to the Premier League.

But it’s understood the forward was given extra time at home with his family, having recently become a father.

Nevertheless, the Clarets might still face a fight on their hands to keep hold of the former Millwall man, who has already spoke of his desire to stay in the top flight following his impressive debut campaign.

“The Premier League has left me wanting more,” he told Dutch outlet Voetbal International in April. “I would like to play there for years to come.”

Born in Amsterdam and an Ajax fan, having come through the academy there, Flemming will inevitably be keen to feature against his former side on Sunday.

Flemming wasn’t the only returnee at Gawthorpe today as the Clarets step up their pre-season preparations ahead of Sunday’s trip to Amsterdam to face Ajax.

Shurandy Sambo and Hannibal were also pictured in training having been given time off after representing Curacao and Tunisia respectively at this summer’s World Cup.

Hjalmar Ekdal, Zeki Amdouni and Lyle Foster were also in action in North America, as was DR Congo’s Axel Tuanzebe, but he’s now officially a free agent after his contract expired at the end of June.