A QUARTET of Clarets are mulling over new deals as Burnley lay the platform for another promotion assault next season.

Recent goal hero Steven Thompson, veteran forward Robbie Blake, goalkeeper Brian Jensen and defender Michael Duff have all been offered terms at the end of their current deals.

Meanwhile vice-captain Graham Alexander and defender Clarke Carlisle have already signed two-year contracts.

However, captain Steven Caldwell, ex-Manchester City duo Stephen Jordan and Nicky Weaver, and young midfielder Adam Kay, have all been released.

Manager Brian Laws, whose own future at Turf Moor remains uncertain, admitted there had been “tough choices” in the aftermath of Burnley’s relegation following just one season in the Premier League.

"I would like to place on record my thanks to the released players for their hard work and commitment to the club," he said.

“I am sure I speak on behalf of all the management, staff and supporters in wishing them every success in their careers elsewhere.”

First-year professional Ben Hoskin and young goalkeeper Jonathan Lund have also been released, Joey Gudjonsson and Christian Kalvenes left the club earlier in the campaign.

David Nugent, Jack Cork and Frederic Nimani have returned to their parent clubs at the end of their loan spells.

Laws is understood to be close to agreeing terms with both Jensen and Duff.

Thompson's offer of a one-year extension is likely to come out of the blue for the former Glasgow Rangers and Cardiff City striker, but is reward for four goals from the bench in his last six games.

However, Burnley face a battle to hang on to Blake.

The 34-year-old wants assurances of first team football, and possibly longer than the one-year deal tabled, before he commits.

Speculation linking the former Bradford and Leeds front man with Hearts refuses to go away, but money could prove a stumbling block for the Scottish Premier League side, as well as location following the recent birth of his second child.