TOM Heaton has thanked everyone connected with Burnley after ending his six-year stay with the club.

The Turf Moor captain has joined Premier League new boys Aston Villa in a deal worth £8 million, with £500,000 in add-ons.

The 33-year-old was promoted twice with the Clarets and won three England caps during his time in East Lancashire and is arguably the club's best goalkeeper of the modern era.

Following the completion of his switch to Villa Park Heaton released a statement through the club by way of a farewell.

In it, the fans' favourite particular points to the reception he received on returning to the side against West Ham in the final game of 2018.

That match saw him regain his place as Burnley's No.1, a spot he would keep for the rest of the season, making his 200th and final competitive appearance for the club against Arsenal on the final day at Turf Moor.

"To the chairman, the gaffer, (goalkeeping coach) Billy Mercer and every single member of staff at Burnley Football Club, I would like to say a massive thank you for the past six years," the statement read.

"To the current playing squad and all the previous players I’ve played with, there have been many special moments, all of which I am proud to have been a part of.

"Captaining the club has been a huge honour for me.

"To the supporters, I’m so very grateful for the incredible support I have received since the day I arrived at Turf Moor, never more so than the reception walking out against West Ham last season.

"I will remember that moment for a long time.

"It’s been some journey and I wish everyone connected with the club all the very best.

"Thank you."

Heaton's return to Turf Moor with his new club is not scheduled to come until New Year's Day 2020 when Villa come to town.