Kyle Walker is determined to help Burnley secure an immediate return to the Premier League, viewing the upcoming Championship season as an opportunity to rectify last term's relegation. The veteran defender expressed his desire to add promotion to his extensive list of career achievements.
"It left a sour taste in my mouth," Walker stated regarding Burnley's recent relegation. "I want to put it right, not just for myself but for the fans who had to deal with it and for the players who have stuck around." He believes the squad possesses the quality to achieve promotion.
Walker, who last played in the Championship 15 years ago during a loan spell at QPR, reflects on that period fondly. "Playing in the Championship grounds you, but it also teaches you. It can be very humbling as well," he recalled. He noted the influence of experienced teammates and credited the spell with helping him rediscover his love for the game, which proved crucial for his subsequent step up to the Premier League.
Despite a career marked by numerous titles, Walker found battling relegation last season to be a significant mental challenge. Now back in the Championship, where Burnley has achieved 100-point seasons in their recent past, Walker anticipates a return to a more dominant role. He has sought advice from former Manchester City teammate and Burnley manager Vincent Kompany, who described the Championship as a difficult yet enjoyable challenge where a team can re-establish itself as a "big fish."
Walker, who recently scored the winning penalty in Burnley's Carabao Cup victory, is embracing his leadership role at Turf Moor. He emphasized the importance of mentality over talent for success, particularly in less glamorous fixtures. "Success in anything is about mentality," Walker said. "Talent gets you so far, but mentality and wanting to do well... it's when it's raining and not on TV, it's 7.45pm on a Tuesday night and the wind's swirling around."
Burnley's promotion hopes are under new management this season, with Nicky Hayen replacing Scott Parker. Walker has been impressed by Hayen's early impact, describing him as direct and clear with his instructions. "He's got his message across really clearly and I'm looking forward to working with him, because I think he's going to be a candidate for manager of the season," Walker commented.
The defender also addressed the prospect of facing younger, dynamic opponents in the Championship. "They'll try and create memes out of me, but I can assure you I am not becoming anyone's meme," he stated.
Walker, now 36, feels at peace with his accomplished career but remains driven by a hunger for more success. Achieving promotion with Burnley is another objective he wishes to add to his resume.