Young Burnley defender faces heart surgery

Errington was found to have an enlarged aorta during routine heart screening of the young players at Turf Moor.

And further tests confirmed that the 17-year-old would require an operation to safeguard his future well-being.

Errington, who joined the Clarets from Wallsend Boys Club at the start of last season, will undergo the procedure on his native Tyneside before being allowed to recuperate at home.

He will then hopefully be able to resume his career next season.

“We wish Jack and his family all the best and will make sure he continues to get the possible care,” said manager Eddie Howe.

“This shows the value of heart screening for all young footballers and while it’s a blow for Jack in the short term, the good news is that he can still hopefully have a successful career ahead of him.”

Errington impressed in his first year with the Clarets as a regular in the youth team, playing a key role in the second half of last season as he helped Terry Pashley’s side reach the last four of the FA Youth Cup with an outstanding performance at Fulham in the last eight.

The central defender was then awarded a professional contract by Howe during the summer, earning a promotion to the Development Squad under Jason Blake and combining playing this season for the Development and youth teams.

Everyone at Turf Moor joins the manager in wishing Jack well for a full and speedy recovery.

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