LONG-SERVING Clarets keeper Brian Jensen welcomed heroes of Wembley to Turf Moor for the second instalment of his testimonial extravaganza.
More than 350 supporters showed how highly regarded the great Dane is at the club by attending the event, entitled An Evening with Brian Jensen, in the James Hargreaves Suite.
Championship play-off final match-winner Wade Elliott was joined by former skipper Steven Caldwell, spot-kick extraordinaire and Fleetwood Town boss Graham Alexander, as well as current favourites Chris McCann and Martin Paterson, though club commitments made it impossible for Jay Rodriguez, Chris Eagles, Robbie Blake and Clarke Carlisle, among others, to attend.
After the players had been introduced, the crowd was given the opportunity to sit back and relive those incogitable and breath-taking scenes from May 25th, 2009, via a 25-minute highlight package, including Elliott’s memorable 13th minute winner.
Peter Oliver, of Burnley Football Club’s media departments, went on to interview a selection of players before a helping of “Beast” bangers and mash was served, courtesy of George Heys Butchers.
The man himself then looked back on a decorated career - speaking of his gratitude to Stan Ternent for bringing him to Turf Moor a decade ago, the evolution of the club, his progression as a player under six different managers, the competition he’s faced for the jersey, international woes and, obviously, highlights including saving penalties from Wayne Bridge and John Obi Mikel during that astonishing night at Stamford Bridge, the Carling Cup semi-final versus Spurs, Wembley, the Premier League and saving Michael Carrick’s spot kick in victory over his beloved Manchester United.
Entertainment included stand-up bingo, a raffle, a live auction and memorabilia sale.
“I’m obviously very proud,” said Jensen. “Burnley Football Club and myself have the same philosophy being that hard work pays off. To be here 10 years is a great achievement. It doesn’t happen often and I’m very proud.”
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