Birthplace: Preston

In his first year at Turf Moor Clarke Carlisle has become an asset to Owen Coyle's squad. A powerful defender who is a towering 6' 3" and a constant threat to the opposition from set pieces, the former Hornet man has scored over 20 career goals.

Two of the goals he scored in the 2007/08 season were memorable ones. He netted as the Clarets beat Wolves 3-2 at Molineux in December 2007 and his other was a spectacular overhead kick to salvage a point in injury-time against Bristol City in the early stages of the season.

As the Clarets push for the Premiership in 2008/09, Carlisle's top flight experience will hopefully guide the team in the right direction.

Burnley completed the signing of Carlisle in August 2007.

The 27-year-old agreed a three-year deal with the Clarets for a fee of £200,000.

An imposing centre-half, Carlisle started his career with Blackpool, where his strong defensive performances attracted the attentions of QPR, who paid £250,000 for his services in 2000.

He enjoyed three seasons in London, helping the R's secure promotion to the Championship before joining Leeds United on a free transfer in summer 2004.

The former England Under 21 International made 38 appearances for the Yorkshire side, returning south after one season to join the Hornets in summer 2005 for £100,000.

Pitched straight into the defensive line in his first season at Vicarage Road Carlisle acquitted himself well, playing a key role as the Hornets finished in third place and gained promotion to the Premiership.

The Preston-born defender had a loan spell at Luton last season, playing against Burnley in the Hatters' 0-0 draw at Turf Moor back in March.