Relegated Burnley have announced that Brian Laws will remain their manager next season, despite the club's dismal record since he took over in January.
Burnley lost 15 of the 19 matches they played after Laws succeeded Owen Coyle and the former Sheffield Wednesday coach had been widely tipped to be sacked as the Lancashire club prepares for life in the Championship.
That option was ruled out however in a statement issued on Wednesday.
‘Contrary to inaccurate local and national media speculation, the Burnley Football Club board of directors wish to make it clear that Brian Laws' position as first team manager is not under threat,’ it read.
‘Laws this morning met with club chairman Barry Kilby and operational director Brendan Flood to plan next season's player recruitment and budget, with a view to giving the club the best chance of returning to the Premier League.
‘Brian Laws has two years remaining on the contract he signed in January 2010.’
The confirmation that Laws would be staying came 24 hours after Burnley released club captain Steven Caldwell and three other players ahead of the drop to the second tier. Midfielder Stephen Jordan, goalkeeper Nicky Weaver and youngster Adam Kay were also let go.
