GRAHAM Branch aims to return to Turf Moor next season as the lynchpin of the Burnley back line.

Out-of-contract Branch is gearing up for summer talks with Clarets boss Stan Ternent after picking up two end-of-season awards in recognition of his steady form last season.

And the Liverpool-born utility man is aiming to tie down a new deal in his preferred role as a first choice centre back.

Branch made a sprinkling of starts at the heart of Burnley's battered defence towards the end of last season, partnering both Mark McGregor and Mauritian stopper Drissa Diallo - the second out-of-contract player Ternent is hoping to persuade to re-sign.

The former Tranmere ace said: "I'm still waiting to speak to the gaffer, but he has said he wants me to come back and the feeling is mutual.

"I'm very happy at Burnley and I think he sees me as a centre half next season, which suits me down to the ground.

"I know if I went elsewhere, they would see me as a left back - where I've played the majority of games for Burnley - or even as a midfielder.

"But I enjoyed playing in the middle of the defence at the end of last season and I see that as a position I'd like to play more regularly."

If Branch does put pen to paper, his wish could well come true since Ternent currently has just Mark McGregor and Arthur Gnohere to choose from at the heart of the defence ahead of any signings he may have in the pipeline.

Gareth Taylor is in line to start for Wales against the USA in the early hours of Tuesday morning.