Sam Vokes says Burnley’s Europa League run has been a “great experience” but the focus is now back on the Premier League. The Clarets failed to make it into the group stage of the competition after being held to a 1-1 draw in the second leg of their play-off tie against Olympiakos at Turf Moor on Thursday night.
The Greek side’s 3-1 win in the first game meant Sean Dyche’s men were always up against it, and, despite a brave effort, they were ultimately knocked out.
Vokes was among the players who missed chances as Burnley knocked on the door but they couldn’t find a breakthrough and went behind on the night late on before Matej Vydra equalised.
He told Clarets Player: “It’s an experience I’m sure of us never dreamed we would have. It’s been one we’ve been proud to take part in and we’ll keep our heads high because we’ve gone out to strong side normally in the Champions League in Olympiakos.
“We gave a good account of ourselves, especially tonight, and reflecting on it, I think it’s a proud moment for us and all of the club.
“It’s 51 years I think since we last played in this competition. It’s where we want to be and we’d love to get back there.”
Burnley are swiftly back in league action when they host Manchester United on Sunday and Vokes says they must now switch their attention to that big game.
He added: “We will keep our heads held high and come back in and we’ve got another big one around the corner with United on Sunday.
“We’ve had a great experience in this and it’s time to concentrate on the league.
“We know in some of the Premier League games we haven’t quite been at our best and so it’s important that we take the positives from last night and build on that for Sunday.”
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