GRAHAM Branch is bursting to get back in pre-season training later this week and prove he is worth his weight in gold to Burnley.

The Clarets longest serving player feels he ended last season on a high after a troubled campaign saw him struggle to find any level of consistency.

But after becoming a father for the first time and signing a new, one-year deal earlier this year, Branch is brimming with new-found confidence and eager for the real action to start in just six weeks time.

Branch, who opens his heart in a three-part series inside tonight's Telegraph, said: "Last season a few things in my personal life flowed into my football and I found it hard for a long while.

"The gaffer was magnificent though and all the problems slowly got sorted out and towards the end of the season, my football got back to the level I know I am capable of.

"Now I'm a father for the first time, I've got a new contract, I'm happy and settled and if the gaffer can get a few more quality players and get a squad together, I think we have a bright future.

"I've had some good times at Burnley and I consider myself lucky to be here as long as I have. This is the gaffer's team now and things are looking good, so I can't wait for the season to start."

Meanwhile, Burnley will again enjoy seeded status when the Carling Cup first round draw is made tomorrow morning.

The Clarets are among 18 seeded clubs in the northern section, where they will face an unseeded team on either August 23 or 24 with matches to be decided on the night.

Don't miss the full draw in tomorrow's Telegraph.