8:19am Friday 22nd June 2012
By Suzanne Geldard
BURNLEY boss Eddie Howe expects to welcome Keith Treacy back for pre-season training when the squad returns to Gawthorpe next month, despite the winger being linked to rival Championship clubs.
The Republic of Ireland international could have been involved in this summer’s Euro 2012 but for an inconsistent first season at Turf Moor.
Straight after scoring from the bench on his Burnley debut, Treacy went on international duty for a friendly against Croatia.
It was to be his last appearance for the Irish.
The 23-year-old was called up for qualifying games against Slovakia and Russia, but did not feature, and was left out of decisive fixtures against Andorra and Arm-enia the following month.
The former Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End wide man was beset by minor injury problems, but ultimately fell out of favour at club level too.
After failing to make the most of the opportunities handed to him by manager Howe after failing to live up to his debut performance, Treacy ended the season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, helping the Owls win automatic promotion from League One.
Wednesday are believed to be interested in making the move permanent as they prepare for a return to the Championship, while Barnsley have also been linked with the tricky winger.
But as far as Howe is concerned, Treacy is due to report back for Clarets duty on July 6.
"I've said before, I'll never shut the door on him, no one is going to nick him from us,” said the Burnley boss.
"He did well at Sheffield Wednesday, forced his way into the team, but if he comes back in good shape, he'll fight for his place.
"If we get interest in him, we'll review it.
"His talent has never been in doubt, he could be a fantastic player for us, he has all the attributes you want in a wide man.
"The few times he did turn it on for us, he was excellent, and we'd like to see him at his very best.”
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