Clarke Carlisle, pictured, picked up the man of the match award in Monday's 1-0 win over Sheffield United to clinch a place in the top flight for the Clarets.

The 29-year-old defender, who went to Balshaw's High School, was a rock at the heart of Burnley's defence as they triumphed in the so-called £60m game, thanks to a first half Wade Elliott strike.

It caps a remarkable turnaround for the Preston-born stopper, who was treated for alcohol addiction in 2003.

He was once named as 'Britain's brainiest footballer' in a quiz show and was a stand-out student at the Church Road school, leaving with five A stars and five As from his GCSEs.

After Burnley's win in front of 36,000 travelling fans, Carlisle told Sky Sports: "I'm privileged to be a member of this magnificent team.

"What a season, words can't describe how brilliant and awesome an achievement this is. I thank God so much, I'm blessed to be a part of this team.

"It's just unbelievable, what an awesome day."

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