Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Burnley boss Sean Dyche: I did everything in my power to keep Watford new boy Andre Gray
SEAN DYCHE insists Burnley did everything in their power to keep Andre Gray at Turf Moor.
Andre Gray has left Burnley for Watford in a £18.5m deal
The striker completed an £18.5m switch to Watford on Wednesday to leave Dyche without one of last season's key players ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Gray had a year left on his contract but turned down the chance to remain at Burnley to boost his pay packet at Vicarage Road.
“Yes we went as far as we could,” said the Clarets boss.
“Andre had a year left on the contract it is a normal football business.
"Nobody wants to lose their best players.
Andre Gray scores stunning goal against Liverpool
Nobody wants to lose their best players
“We are not the market leaders financially so it’s tough. How far do you go with what they are asking for?
“Andre is 26 and it’s an important stage of his career and life.
"There is a still a level this operates to but it’s a reality of where the club is at.”
Burnley have no injury concerns ahead of their trip to Chelsea in the opening game of the campaign, although defender Phil Bardsley is still short on match fitness.
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?