BURNLEY have a squad full of players desperate to prove people wrong. That is the view of Ashley Westwood after the midfielder played his part in confounding the critics with the Clarets this season.

Having been tipped for a relegation struggle Burnley ended up claiming their highest league finish in 44 years and a first European campaign in 51 years.

Westwood helped prove the critics wrong collectively and individually, making a fine return to the Premier League, with 19 appearances as he filled in admirably for the injured Steven Defour in the second half of the campaign.

“At the start of the season everyone had Burnley to be in a real dogfight but that’s us as characters, we want to prove people wrong and we go about our business the same way,” the former Aston Villa midfielder said.

Westwood lays plenty of praise at the door of boss Sean Dyche for the Clarets’ stunning achievements this season.

The manager’s ability to keep training sharp is key for the 28-year-old, who insists Dyche hasn’t changed his style this season despite the success.

“He was spot on. He’s got the old school feel about him, that’s what keeps you on your toes, but the training is lively every day, you’ve to set standards high,” said Westwood.

“I don’t see he’s done anything different. The players he’s bringing in and the squad now we’re all developing as a group of players, the manager is developing, the coaches are developing.

“The training ground is second to none. The whole club is evolving and hopefully that will take us forward.”

Having helped Burnley to a first top seven finish in the top flight since 1974, the challenge for Westwood and his teammates now is to try and match it.

Asked about expectations, he said: “That’s the tough one. Can we now go and do it year in and year out? That’s going to be the question for us but I think the club has got a real reality about it, we’re not getting carried away, the fans should enjoy the ride at the minute but next year is going to be another big challenge for us.

“To match it again next year will be even bigger for us.”