Two former young Clarets celebrate promotion

Last updated : 22 April 2015 By Tony Scholes

They beat Stourbridge 1-0 last night, and in doing so, they've missed out on a league derby with Salford City next season but they will come up against the might of Stockport County who are currently in mid-table in that division following their fall from grace.

What many Burnley fans may not know is that FC United clinched the title last night with two former Burnley players in their team, players who were in the youth team just a few years ago, one of whom graduated to the development squad.

Dean Stott (pictured left), who was a scholar between 2006 and 2008, was released at the end of his scholarship but then spent one year at Preston followed by two years with Hyde before signing for FC United four years ago, since when he's been a regular in their team and is now captain.

Alongside him last night was Chris Lynch (right on picture) who was one year behind Dean as a scholar and was then given two one year contracts with the development squad before being released at the end of the 2010/11 season.

He's had serious injury problems since becoming a professional. He went on loan from Burnley to Chester in October 2009 during which time he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury and he suffered the same injury again last season while with Southport.

On recovering he joined FC United last August, initially on loan, but made the move permanent three weeks later since when he's been an important member of the squad, making 28 appearances in the centre of defence and scoring three goals.

Both Dean and Chris can now look forward to playing at the higher level and at their new stadium Broadhurst Park which will open later this year.