Stephen Ward says Burnley qualifying for Europe would be 'unbelievable'
Tuesday 6 March 2018 16:54, UK
Burnley defender Stephen Ward says the prospect of the Clarets managing to qualify for Europe would be "unbelievable".
Following a solid start to the Premier League season, Burnley have found themselves in seventh place as the campaign reaches its climax.
Ward made his comeback from injury recently and featured as the Clarets got back to winning ways against Everton, keeping them five points behind sixth-placed Arsenal.
While the Ireland international is not making European football a priority given the duration of the campaign left to run, he admits it would be special for a club like Burnley and its fan base.
"It would be fantastic, obviously for the fans it would be an unbelievable feeling for them and an unbelievable achievement for us.
"[It's our] second season in a row in the Premier League, I think we were written off by a lot of people because teams get worked out a little in their second season so it's all credit to the management, staff and recruitment giving us all new dimensions and different ways of playing.
"That's really been key, especially away from home this year where our form has been a lot better."
While Burnley may have high ambitions as a club, individuals within the squad are also receiving personal merit as a result of their performances.
Striker Ashley Barnes will be scouted by Austria head coach Franco Foda, with Barnes eligible through an Austrian grandparent.
Ward believes, should Ward receive the call from the Austrian set-up, he would take to international football with ease.
"He's got that link with Austria so it's all down to him, it doesn't surprise me that they're coming looking at him with the way he's been playing.
"Anyone can be watching on any given day, I don't think Barnesy is the type of lad that'll let that affect him.
"He'd be fine [adapting to international football] if you look at how hard he works, I think he'd strengthen any team."
