Founded
1882
Location
Burnley, Lancashire
Team History
1883 - Present / Burnley Football Club
1882 - 1883 / Rugby Club Burnley Rovers
Nickname
The Clarets - Burnley FC is one of the oldest football clubs in England and has a long history of success. The team’s nickname, “The Clarets,” dates back to the late 19th century when Burnley was known as ‘the claret-and-blue town’ due to its association with claret – a type of red wine.
The term 'Clarets' first appeared in print on 18 April 1886 when Burnley faced Bolton Wanderers at Turf Moor - their home ground since 1883. It was reported that "there were many thousands present wearing the colors which have become so popular amongst supporters of this club - namely, white shirts with blue collars and cuffs, while red ties formed an effective background." This description perfectly matched what we now know as 'claret and blue,' hence why it became synonymous with Burnley Football Club over time.
In addition to being known for its distinctive color combination, it's believed that there are two other possible explanations for how The Clarets got their name: Firstly, during medieval times, soldiers wore scarlet cloaks or tunics called "cloaks" which could be seen from afar – thus making them easy targets! Secondly, some historians believe that fans adopted this nickname because they wanted people outside Lancashire (where most supporters lived) to recognize them by using such a unique moniker rather than just referring to themselves simply as 'Burnley.'
Today The Clarets remain one of England's top Premier League teams, thanks mainly to their passionate fanbase, who continue to support them through thick and thin! Whether you're watching games live at Turf Moor or tuning into matches online from anywhere around the world, you can't help but feel proud whenever you hear those famous words: "Up the Clarets!"
Championships
Premier League / 2
1960, 1921
FA Cup / 1
1914
Premier League - FA Cup Double / 0
Stadium
1883 - Present / Turf Moor
1882 - 1883 / Calder Vale
Current Owner
2015 - Present / Mike Garlick
*Blue is this team’s history
- 1883
- 1960
- 1973
- 2009
- 2014
- 2016
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Burnley FC Formation in 1883
On 10 August, Burnley Football Club played their first-ever match as an association football club against local team Burnley Wanderers, winning 4–0. The team played the match in a blue and white kit, the colors of the former rugby club, at their home ground Calder Vale, which was also adopted from the rugby club. Burnley’s first competitive game was in ... -
Burnley FC Premier Champions in 1960
Burnley endured a tense 1959–60 season in which Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton Wanderers were the other protagonists in the chase for the league title. The team ultimately clinched their second First Division championship on the last day of the season with a 2–1 victory at Manchester City, with goals from Brian Pilkington and Trevor Meredith. Although the team had been ... -
Burnley FC wins its first and only Charity Shield
In 1973: Burnley FC wins its first and only Charity Shield, beating Manchester City 1–0 at Maine Road. Colin Waldron scores the winning goal. -
Burnley FC wins promotion to the Premier League for the first time in its history
In 2009: Burnley FC wins promotion to the Premier League for the first time in its history, by beating Sheffield United 1–0 in the Championship play-off final at Wembley. Wade Elliott scores the only goal of the game. The club is managed by Owen Coyle, who leaves midway through the next season to join Bolton Wanderers -
Burnley FC wins promotion to the Premier League
In 2014: Burnley FC wins promotion back to the Premier League as runners-up of the Championship under manager Sean Dyche. The club also sets a club record of 23 league games unbeaten. Danny Ings and Sam Vokes score 20 goals each -
Burnley FC wins promotion back to the Premier League as champions
In 2016: Burnley FC wins promotion back to the Premier League as champions of the Championship under manager Sean Dyche again. The club also sets a club record of 23 league wins in a season. Andre Gray scores 25 goals and wins the Championship Player of the Year award
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
History of the Burnley FC
Burnley FC is one of the most historic teams in English football, having been around since 1882. The team has a long and proud history that includes multiple promotions to the Premier League and success in both domestic cup competitions. Burnley has had their ups and downs over the years, but they remain essential to English football culture today.
The club was founded as a professional outfit by two local businessmen, John Yates-Smith and James Anderson, who wanted to create a competitive side for their hometown of Burnley. In 1888 they joined The Football League, which allowed them access to bigger clubs with more resources than themselves at that time; this enabled them to compete against some of England’s best teams from then on out. During this period, Burnley won promotion several times until 1920, when they were promoted to Division One (now known as the Premier League).
Throughout its history, Burney has gone through many highs, including winning two FA Cup titles in 1914 & 1921, respectively, along with being crowned champions twice during the 1959–60 & 2016–17 seasons, respectively; these successes are a testament to how far the Club has come despite various challenges throughout those periods such as financial difficulties or managerial changes, etc. They also returned to Europe after qualifying for the Europa League competition during the 2018/19 season. They eventually lost out on the semi-finals stage due to a lack of experience playing against top European opposition. Despite not competing at the highest level, fans still hope that Burnely can make it back soon, given recent performances showing promise under current manager Sean Dyche. Regardless of whether you're a fan or not - It's clear why everyone should respect what Burnley FC stands for – An accurate representation of passion and commitment to the game we all love!