NO-ONE in football escaped disruptions in the 2019/20 season, but for Burnley's Johann Berg Gudmundsson it had more than most.

Last term was, of course, brought to a standstill by the coronavirus pandemic in March, resuming in June for Premier League and Championship sides, and those involved in the play-offs lower down the Football League.

But before that injuries had impacted on Gudmundsson's campaign. Indeed his struggles stretch back over two years since featuring in Iceland's historic World Cup campaign.

Now, though, he is ready to put it all behind him and focus on what he hopes will be a big season for him and the Clarets.

And he hopes a decision to not make himself available for Iceland's Nations League ties against England and Belgium, and instead have a full pre-season with Burnley, will pay off in the Premier League.

“That’s the main part. People know I’m not going to the international games,” said the winger.

“I decided it would be better for me to stay here and have a full pre-season.

“These games don’t come at a great time, especially for myself after I’ve had some problems.

“I thought it was the best for me to get a full pre-season in here, get the base fitness, get some games in and try to be as fit as possible for the season.

“I’m working hard extremely hard. Of course, you’re a bit tired at times but that’s the way it is.

“I’m just looking to the future and I can see a bright future.”

Gudmundsson was involved in the last five games post-lockdown last season, and scored in a behind closed doors friendly with Tranmere on Saturday, which Burnley won 3-0.

Speaking to the club's official website, the 29-year-old said: “I’m working my way back to fitness. We had a few weeks off, but I kept myself ticking, as we do.

“I went to Iceland and it’s been a long time since I saw my family and friends, so it was good to turn off for a bit.

“But now it’s back to work. We’ve had some extremely tough sessions – running sessions – just to get the base fitness back and then the first game.

“It was good to get a few minutes in the bank on Saturday and it’s always good to get a goal.”