CANVEY’S Premier League footballer Dean Marney says promotion to the top flight with Burnley came at “the perfect time.”

The 30-year-old is entering the autumn of his career and he told the Echo, at the start of last season, that he had already admitted to himself this could be his last chance to play in the Premier League.

Marney played a crucial role in the Clarets side that amassed 93 points and finished runners-up behind Leicester City in the Championship.

“It means so much to be playing at the top level again,” said Marney.

“We didn’t think about promotion at the start of the season as we were among the favourites to go down with our small squad.

“The gaffer just told us to be competitive and see how we got on. Playing without that pressure helped us and we surprised an awful lot of people.

The dynamic midfielder was involved in both goals in his team’s final day draw at Reading and said his progression as a player was all down to manager Sean Dyche.

“We knew how good we were, but the manager really brought it out of us. I have played under a few managers in my time, but the gaffer is the best.

"He gives us confidence and lets us express ourselves on the pitch.”

Marney said he will be coming back to Canvey to see his family in the near future after the trials and tribulations of the season before heading off to teammate’s, and Basildon-born Michael Kightly’s wedding.

“We have a long break and we need this time to recuperate and rest. It will be really nice to see my brother and his fiancée and my nephews as well. After that the hard work begins again.

“Kights is a great lad. I didn’t know much about him before he joined the club, except that he was a very good player and he has proved that this season.

"The fact he has invited me to his wedding after only months of knowing him shows what good mates we are.”

Marney has played 60 times in the Premier League for Hull and Tottenham, scoring three goals.

“I have played a lot of games this season and have loved that responsibility.

"I know the manager will strengthen in the summer, but we have a few lads with Premier League experience and we will need to draw on all of that.

“I am looking forward to going back to Tottenham and seeing some old friends but I just want to do my best to keep Burnley in the Premier League.”