NICK Pope insists he wouldn't swap the defenders in front of him for anyone after praising the Clarets' 'superb' back four.

The goalkeeper has continued to shine as Tom Heaton's replacement between the posts, but he admits he's got a lot to thank the men in front of him for as well.

Pope was reflecting on the Premier League's latest big money transfer, with Virgil van Dijk's £75million switch to Liverpool, but when asked if he'd like to have the Dutch defender in front of him, the Clarets' stopper said: “I like my back line! I’m really happy with our team. We’ve had changes and whoever it’s been in front of me have all been superb."

The move for van Dijk is a world record fee for a defender but Pope believes it's hard to judge where prices are going to go in the future and he doesn't think it will be long before there is a goalkeeper moving for upwards of £100million.

“I think it’s a sign of the times a little bit with how money is in the game nowadays and transfer fees," the 25-year-old said.

“I don’t think it’s long before there’ll be a £100m defender. I don’t think it’s a massive surprise to anyone.

“I think you look at the numbers and say they are high because they are higher than we are used to and what records have been before.

“Maybe in five years’ time that won’t seem such a high price.

“You might see £200m. You don’t know. Where are the limits?

“You might see a £100m goalkeeper. It’s hard to see where the limits are at this time."

Pope has now played 17 Premier League games since Heaton was ruled out with a shoulder injury and his form has helped Burnley rise to seventh in the Premier League.

“Thirty-three points we’re on now. We’ve had a great start to the season with a great foundation," the former Charlton man said.

“We are playing some good football, as well, so I think everyone is happy with the season up to this point.

“I’ve done okay. I’ve enjoyed being part of this team, to be honest. The lads in front of me have been superb and helped me out massively.

“Your first games in the Premier League and your Premier League debut are never easy and I can’t thank them enough to be honest, and so far, so good."