Kyle Walker has insisted motivation will not be a problem as he prepares for his first full Championship campaign with Burnley, following the club's relegation from the Premier League.
The 36-year-old defender, who has won six Premier League titles and a Champions League with Manchester City, last played in the second tier during the 2010-11 season with QPR. He returns with 96 England caps and a wealth of experience, but he remains driven.
"I think if I have to get motivated to play football, I should stay in bed in the morning," Walker said. "It's a job that I'm doing that millions want to do. So if you're not motivated to play football and don't win games, I'm definitely in the wrong job."
Physical Demands and Mentality
Walker, who turned 36 in May, is not concerned about the rigours of a 46-game season, attributing his fitness to "genetic gifts" from his parents.
He also acknowledged that opposing wingers will see him as a scalp but is determined not to become a meme. "I think they try to create, what is it called, memes now? They'll try and create memes out of me and I can assure you that I am not becoming anyone's meme," he said.
Career Journey
Walker's path to the top began at Sheffield United before Tottenham signed him in 2009. A loan spell at QPR under Neil Warnock proved pivotal, teaching him valuable lessons. "Playing in the Championship - it grounds you, but it also teaches you. It can be very humbling as well," he reflected.
After a loan at Aston Villa, he returned to Tottenham, earned his first England cap, and later moved to Manchester City, where he collected 15 major trophies before joining Burnley last year.
Adjusting to Life at Burnley
Walker admitted that last season was mentally challenging, as Burnley won just four Premier League games. "Last season, most of all, it was about the mental game," he said. He feels an "obligation" to help the club bounce back and described relegation as leaving a "sour taste".
He has spoken to former Manchester City team-mate Vincent Kompany, who managed Burnley's promotion in 2022-23 with 101 points. "I've spoken to Vinny, I've got words from him," Walker revealed.
Promotion Ambitions
Walker is confident about the squad's quality and the new manager, Nicky Hayen, who has made a positive first impression. "He has been great," Walker said. "The information he has given is key, he is very direct."
With Burnley among the favourites for promotion, Walker is determined to succeed. "All the time I've got a football shirt on my back, I'll always give my all and I won't settle for anything less," he said.
