BURNLEY coach Michael Jolley has completed the prestigious UEFA Pro Licence.

Jolley, senior professional development phase coach at Turf Moor, graduated recently to earn the award, which is the highest available to football coaches and mandatory for all first team managers who wish to work in the Premier League.

The Sheffield-born coach currently heads up the club’s development squad, which aims to provide a pathway for young players to the first team.

Jolley, whose licence included conducting a research project on 'Sustained Success in Football Management', said: "It is an honour to graduate with this prestigious award, which is recognised throughout football across the world.

"I qualified for this cohort of the Pro Licence by being selected as one of 16 coaches for the first FA Elite Coaches Award.

"I was lucky enough to interview 12 managers who have completed over 1,000 games in management, as well as several current managers, including our own, Sean Dyche, who has been very supportive throughout.

"I then presented my recommendations to a panel, including representatives from the FA, the LMA, and the Premier League."

He added: “I am grateful of all the support offered and very proud to represent Burnley Football Club.

“I now look forward to using the knowledge gained to continue to help our young players reach their full potential.”

Jolley has been with Burnley since 2014. He completed a degree in economics from Cambridge University and worked as a financial trader in London and New York, before quitting to embark on a career in football coaching.