BURNLEY manager Eddie Howe praised Graham Alexander’s unrelenting dedication to his profession, as the 39-year-old became only the second outfield player in the history of English football to reach 1000 appearances for club and country.

The Scotland international left the field to a guard of honour formed by his team-mates, after his senior appearance tally reached four figures when he replaced matchwinner Chris Eagles in the 87th minute. He is only the fifth player ever to achieve such a milestone, with goalkeepers Peter Shilton, Pat Jennings and Ray Clemence all members of an exclusive club.

But Howe believes Alexander is worthy of his place.

“Not knowing him coming to the club, you hear a lot of stories throughout football about what a good pro he is but it’s only when you work with him that you realise how dedicated a pro he is to his profession,” said the Clarets boss.

“He trains the same every single day, which is why he’s had the career that he’s had.

"He’s a fantastic professional who looks after himself.

"I remember walking past the massage room on a Friday and he wasn’t starting on the Saturday, but he was still having a massage at 9.30 at night to prepare himself the best possible way.

“It’s little things like that that really make the difference and stand him out from the rest.

“Why he’s still playing now is down to how he’s looked after himself and his dedication to the sport.”

On summing up the achievement, Howe added: “I think you can only judge it by how many people have done it.

"There aren’t many. I think it’s a fantastic achievement.

“He’s still an exceptional player, you can see that in training.

“He has a fantastic attitude and he’s a fantastic guy to have around the changing room and at the club.

“Full credit to him, he deserves it.

“I know he’s been aware of it and I’ve been aware of it for a while and I’m just pleased that he’s done it and he can look back at a fantastic career.”