MARK Patterson was heading back to his native Lancashire today after agreeing a £200,000 transfer from Sheffield United to Burnley.

The 31-year-old former Wanderers midfielder was having a medical at Turf Moor before completing a move which will give him a two-year contract with the Clarets with an option of a further year.

Burnley boss Adrian Heath, delighted to beat Lancashire rivals Preston and Blackpool to secure Patterson's signature, said: "It's a great signing and Mark's going to be a firm favourite with the fans.

"I remember watching him at Bolton and being impressed with his attitude and commitment. Everyone knows he's a great competitor and a very combative footballer."

Patterson started his career at Blackburn and had spells at Preston and Bury before a five-year association with Wanderers, which ended when he switched to Sheffield United in December 1995 as part of the £1.5 million Nathan Blake deal..

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