‘I need to play up front’ - Martin Paterson

The 26-year-old, who scored 37 goals in all competitions for the Clarets after signing in June 2008, joined the Terriers yesterday after his contract at Turf Moor expired.

The Northern Ireland international helped Burnley’s rise to the Premier League in his debut season at the club with 12 league goals, while his four goals in the Carling Cup also contributed to the club’s march to the semi-final of the competition.

After cementing his move to West Yorkshire, Paterson told htafc.com: “First and foremost, Huddersfield is a very good, respected and well run club and when an approach comes, you listen.

“The manager spoke to me and laid out his plans and importantly he talked about playing me in my position as a centre forward, so the decision became a no-brainer.

“That was a big factor in my decision to come here. I spent five years at Burnley and it was a good time, but now it is time to knuckle down and put myself back in the position of being one of the most dangerous strikers in the league. To do that, I need to play up front.

“I have turned down opportunities at some other very good clubs to come here because I believe in what the manager is saying and I believe in the club.”

Paterson added: “When my name is mentioned, people always talk about how hard I work but I want to knit that together with goals. I feel that if I can get out on the field every week in my natural position, it will be a promising year. I played 41 games last season, but I’m looking to play even more this year – and score a lot more goals.”

• The Burnley Express has launched a FREE football app which is now available to download on iPhone and Android devices.