Anthony Fairclough is to return to his hometown club of Burnley FC to take over as director of commercial affairs from Monday, a job offer he described as too good to turn down.

He had been appointed to the role in July 2006 and oversaw an eventful period in the Reds' history, with the club coming out of administration and managing to avoid relegation on the last day of the 2006/07 campaign before they ultimately dropped down to the Blue Square premier at the end of last season.

Speaking exclusively to the Evening Leader yesterday he said: "It's quite sad really – it has certainly been an emotional rollercoaster.

"It's probably one of the toughest two years of my career but I've got to say it's enjoyable.

"Wrexham is a great football club but the offer from Burnley is one that I had to take. One of the reasons for that was in terms of my own career progression.

"To be a commercial director of your own team is something you just can't pass up."

Speaking about his two years at Wrexham he went on: "It has been quite a time and one I don't regret. It is one that has made me stronger as a person.

"I've been overwhelmed by the good luck messages from the fans and all I can say is I wish Wrexham all the best.

"We've seen some good things off the field – improvements in most areas.

"Coming out of administration there was fresh hope for a clean slate.

"Fortunately we just managed to stave off relegation that season, but weren't so fortunate last season.

"But I'm leaving on a high because the team is now in the top half of the table and they are looking much stronger with good leadership from Brian."