Striker Barnes wants promotion after Burnley return

Burnley's Ashley Barnes wants to reward supporters and staff for the way they have welcomed him back to the club with another promotion to the Premier League.

The striker returned for a second spell in the January transfer window after a previous stint of nine years which saw him win two Championship titles and finish second once.

The Clarets are currently third in the second tier, two points behind second-placed Sheffield United.

Barnes has seen starting chances limited since his free transfer from Norwich but has come off the bench four times so far in the league.

"It's a special place to me and my family," said the 35-year-old.

"The pure passion of football that they live and die for; it's just amazing. I love that you go to the ground and it's not very nice. That's how we make it feel for other teams. You make it a fortress.

"I love everything about the club and always have done. I think it's just the love that everyone shows for each other.

"That's what this town has. Over the years you see so many players come and go but players do need to realise the fans are everything to a club.

"To be honest I never thought I would be back. Maybe one day in the future in a different kind of role but as a player, no, never.

"I would always dream it, of course, but I didn't think it could ever be possible.

"To do it again (and win promotion) would be phenomenal. It would be extra special because you know that it might be the last.

"That's something that I really hope that I can do and help the lads get over the line."