BURNLEY manager Adrian Heath today revealed the reasons behind his dramatic decision to transfer list leading goalscorer Kurt Nogan and told him: "You will not hold Burnley to ransom."

Nogan was axed from last night's FA Cup second round replay with Walsall as Burnley claimed a lucrative third round tie against Liverpool after a nail-biting penalty shoot-out.

Heath said: "I didn't take this decision lightly. I've had to force the issue because of a lack of progress in the contract talks.

"We're offering him a lot of money and he's made it abundantly clear that if he doesn't get what he wants then he'll move.

"I'm a little surprised that he has brought the Peterborough discussion into matters because that was a dressing room thing. He wasn't the only one one involved in this discussion. Ask the other players. I agonised over this decision all weekend. It's not an easy decision to put your leading scorer on the transfer list. The club comes first and no individual is bigger than Burnley. I can't let this situation effect other players. "The contract talks with him and his agent are going nowhere. There has to be some semblance of reality here. Players' demands are going through the roof.

"But Kurt should remember that he is employed by Burnley and earns a very good living from the club. If I select him to play at Blackpool it is his duty as a professional to play. I will make sure he plays - if selected."

Heath said he made the shock decision to transfer list Nogan because the player missed training on Sunday and his continual refusal to sign a new three year deal.

"Kurt didn't turn up for training and we'll have to take his word for that because his baby wasn't well," added Heath. "I didn't think he would be in the right frame of mind to play football last night and that's why I left him out. "The directors have stood by me when I've made this decision and I've got their full backing. It was not an easy decision to make.

"But I'm pleased for the rest of the players because their efforts got us through against Walsall.

"I'd be delighted if Kurt stays because he is one of the best goalscorers in this division.

"But sooner or later somebody had to make a decision. I don't think I would be doing my job as manager of this football club of Kurt walked out to France at the end of his contract without us receiving a shilling.

"If he's available to be sold and people offer the right money then we'll go and do it."

Nogan - I'm ready to quit (see separate story)

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