Vincent Kompany says he wouldn’t be surprised if Sander Berge attracts outside interest following his impressive debut campaign with Burnley.
The 26-year-old was the big winner at Burnley’s end-of-season awards’ night last week, taking home both the players’ player and fans’ player awards.
It was deserved recognition for the midfielder, who has been a regular and consistent performer for the Clarets this term, making 38 appearances in all competitions.
Berge might leave Burnley this summer if the Clarets manage to return to the Championship, given the team’s vulnerable position within the relegation zone.
While Kompany is only focused on Berge continuing to improve at Turf Moor, he does accept interest will always be forthcoming when you play so consistently.
“To be honest, I haven’t given it much thought,” he stated.
“I want him to help Burnley by getting better and improving again. I am a coach in that capacity. The rest comes after.
“Good players always attract interest, so it wouldn’t surprise me.”
Berge, who began the season slowly before gaining momentum, embodies Burnley’s play in many aspects.
Kompany feels the Norwegian has proven he belongs in the Premier League, so much so.
“It’s great that Berge received the awards because, in my opinion, his progress highlights the progress of everyone else,” he remarked.
“You can see how he entered the building in the first few games, raising legitimate questions at the moment. However, I believe he has performed on par with or even better than the midfielders he has faced in almost every game.
“He is crucial to us in every game, and he belongs at this level. I hope he can at least match those efforts with a goal this coming weekend. That would be fantastic.
Kirstie Levell won every award for Burnley’s women’s team during the previous weekend’s awards ceremony, which was held at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester.The goalie, who has played in 21 games this season, has put on some standout performances, helping Rebecca Sawiuk’s team concede the second fewest goals in the National League North.
