Exclusive: David Prutton reacts as Burnley FC face losing "massive player" after promotion | OneFootball

David Prutton has told FLW his verdict on the situation surrounding CJ Egan-Riley's Burnley future

David Prutton believes that Burnley will sorely miss CJ Egan-Riley if his proposed move to Strasbourg goes through this summer.

According to Alex Crook, the defender has agreed a five-year deal with the Ligue 1 club amid his expiring contract with the Championship outfit.

Egan-Riley was a key part of Scott Parker’s side as the team gained automatic promotion to the Premier League this season.

The centre-back featured 41 times for the Clarets as they conceded just 16 goals in the entire campaign, finishing second in the table to only Leeds United.

Burnley’s CJ Egan-Riley regret

Prutton has claimed that Burnley could regret losing Egan-Riley this summer, if his deal to Strasbourg goes through.

He is surprised at the player’s decision to walk away from the chance to play in the Premier League, but believes playing for the French side is a very attractive proposition nonetheless.

“I would say Burnley would regret [losing him], he’s been a massive player for them,” Prutton exclusively told Football League World.

“Off the back of a wonderful season where they've been at their miserly best at the back, a five-year deal I think that’s an extremely attractive proposition.

“Being able to work with Liam Rosenior is an extremely attractive proposition, and Strasbourg is beautiful, so there’s a lot of boxes to be ticked.

“I would be a little surprised given the fact he’s got a crack at the Premier League, obviously it’s not the be all and end all, but it’s one of the most important places to play football.

“I would be surprised at that, would be a hell of a coup for Strasbourg.

“Maybe they can’t compete with the finances, maybe that’s the reason for it, but I’m sure Burnley would sorely miss him.”

CJ Egan-Riley signed for Burnley from Manchester City in the summer of 2022, but this proved his breakout year at Turf Moor after loans with Hibernian and PSV Jong.

Losing CJ Egan-Riley for nothing is a real blow

Egan-Riley formed a crucial part of Burnley’s defence, so Parker will be frustrated to lose someone so important.

That he is going for nothing is the real blow, as a reasonable fee being attached would make it a deal the club could live with.

Egan-Riley performed well in the Championship, but it’s unclear whether he would’ve been good enough for them in the Premier League.

If they were getting an eight-figure sum for him then they could reinvest that money into finding a replacement, but now they’ll have to use their own resources to find someone that can take his spot instead.