Republic of Ireland international Kevin Long has signed a new contract with Burnley running to the summer of 2021.

The 28-year-old defender has been with the Clarets since joining from Cork City in 2010.

Long told Burnley's official website: "Talks started at the end of last season and moved on from there.

"I came back in the summer to go again and I still really enjoy being here and I'm delighted that it will be for another three years.

"Ever since I've been here the club has gone from strength to strength. It's progressed massively, and I think it will continue to do, as long as we keep making sure the performances on the pitch are moving forward." 

Long is Burnley's longest serving player and helped the Clarets to a seventh place finish in the Premier League last season - their best finish for 44 years.

The defender has been included in Martin O'Neill's Ireland squad to face Denmark on Saturday and Wales next week and he believes that his form for Burnley over the last couple of years, has helped to cement his place in the squad.

"Playing in the Premier League is the highest level, which has definitely helped me," said Long.

"I’m delighted to have been called up by my country again and it’s a big week for us."

Long made 19 appearances for Burnley last season, including 16 in the Premier League as he helped them finish seventh.

So far this term he has featured in only one league match among five appearances in all competitions.
Long added: "Last season I played quite a few games in the Premier League, which is the highest level and where you want to be.

"I'm not in the team at the moment with Tarky (James Tarkowski) and Ben (Mee) doing well and so I've got to bide my time again.

"You have to wait for a chance and then try and take it when it comes, which I think I did last season.
"I want to be playing games and I'm not happy when I'm not in the team.