BURNLEY defender David Edgar has signed a one-year contract extension.

The Canadian international, who arrived at Turf Moor from Newcastle United in July 2009, has committed himself to the Clarets until June 2014.

Edgar has had to bide his time before establishing himself in the first team, but is enjoying a good run in the side this season.

And manager Eddie Howe says the 24-year-old’s new deal is reward for his hard work.

“He has shown a real willingness to improve on the training pitch, which is so important to us,” said the Burnley boss.

“I think he will only continue to get better and I think potentially he could be a real asset to this football club.

“David has had a good season. He has got better and better. He is a young footballing centre-half who previous to this season had not had many games or opportunities.

“We’ve continually picked him, which I think speaks volumes for his performances of late, especially where he has formed a good partnership with Ben (Mee) and with Michael (Duff).”

Howe added: “Hopefully he will just get better and better and continue to develop in the way that we want.

“I think the good thing about David is that he is a terrific footballer and he really suits how we are trying to go in terms of playing out from the back.

“Hopefully, though, this isn’t the end. We don’t want David to take a backward step now. We want him to get even better and his aim should be to try and be my first choice centre-half.”