JOHNSON NAMED SCHOLAR OF THE YEAR

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Winger recognised by Academy staff

2025-06-03T09:00:00.000Z

JOHNSON NAMED SCHOLAR OF THE YEAR

Winger recognised by Academy staff

2025-06-03T09:00:00.000Z

Winger recognised by Academy staff

Zach Johnson has been nominated as Burnley’s Scholar of the Year for the 2024/25 season, with his application on and off the pitch being key to the recognition.

The Academy is governed by the Premier League, with every club in the country asked to nominate a player that has stood out in the last nine months.

Johnson was the Clarets’ pick and recently attended a special ceremony at Wembley Stadium to receive his award, accompanied by Academy Manager Chris Casper and U18s Manager Tony Philliskirk.

“It’s good to have been nominated by everybody here at Burnley, and when I got told I was buzzing,” the 18-year-old said.

“I’ve been here since I was 7, so it feels like I have come a long way to this point.

“Over the last two years I think I’ve developed massively – both physically and technically. I’ve got more of an understanding of the game too and have matured on that front.

“I get on really well with Tony (Philliskirk – U18s Manager) and Matt (Walsh – U18s Assistant Manager), who’ve helped me a lot and have made me a better player at the end of the day.”

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Johnson, a left-footed player who plays on the right of a front three, had a successful season individually and was a big part of the U18s side that won the Professional Development League North too.

He recorded 22 goals and 20 assists in all competitions and was able to step up to the U21s too, making eight appearances for Andy Farrell’s side.

Johnson continued: “We always talk about the team we have here in the U18s, and it was great to be a part of that.

“I managed 15 goals and 19 assists last season, so they’re two good records over the last two seasons that I’m really pleased with.

“It’s always a good experience when you get a chance to play up with bigger and older players in the U21s, where some of the players you come up against have Football League experience.

“There’s a real excitement heading into PL2 next season too, and everybody’s looking forward to playing against some of the best players in the country.”

JOHNSON NAMED SCHOLAR OF THE YEAR - Image 2

A key part of every player’s scholarship is the education element, with our teenagers completing a Level Three Extended Diploma in Sporting Excellence.

In his award nomination Johnson was commended for his commitment to his studies and has since achieved a high grade for his efforts.

Furthermore, the winger has applied himself well in the Club’s Life Skills programme and engagements with our official charity, Burnley FC in the Community.

“The education side’s a really important part of the scholarship,” he continued.

“Even if it’s not your thing you’ve got to do your best and I think I’ve worked hard at it.

“It’s always good to go into the community too. Because I’m from Liverpool, I didn’t realise how big of a role the football club plays within Burnley.

“When you’re going to these events and speaking to people, you get a real feel for the love the fans have for the Club.”

Congratulations again, Zach!