GARETH Taylor has ended speculation over his Burnley future by insisting he wants to sign a new deal.

The Clarets striker, who has just one year remaining on his current contract, recently capped a memorable season by walking away with 11 trophies, including the club's official Player of the Year award.

Now, in-demand Taylor has moved to end rumours he may quit the club this summer by revealing he is desperate to extend his playing days at Turf Moor.

The 30-year-old Welsh international - a recent target for first division rivals Norwich - said: "I was away last week when all the stories surfaced about the interest from elsewhere.

"Burnley have knocked back any approach though - and that's fine by me because I want to extend my contract here.

"I only have one year to go, but I'm very settled at Burnley and I'm enjoying playing my football there, so why look elsewhere?

"My agent is planning to have talks with the manager in the near future, but I don't mind going in myself if I have to because I get on well with the gaffer and have no problems staying where I'm wanted."

Taylor's commitment to the cause is a real fillip for boss Stan Ternent as he pieces together a new jigsaw puzzle for next season's assault on the first division.

Planning without his leading goalscorer would have been a genuine hammer blow given the fact 13 players have already been shown the Turf Moor exit door.

But the Clarets look like being spoilt for choice again in terms of attacking options next season, with Taylor joining million-pound men Robbie Blake and Ian Moore, along with Greek international Dimitrios Papadopoulos in the race to lead the line.

Taylor - set to fly out with the Welsh squad tomorrow for the forthcoming friendly clash with the US in California - added: "It's been a terrific season for me and I'm looking to carry that on next season.

"I've had to keep myself fresh for the Welsh game, but once that's out of the way I'll grab a break with the family and then come back fresh and raring to go again."

Taylor has been a revelation since arriving at Turf Moor, initially on loan from Manchester City, in February 2001.

The towering hitman, who signed as a free transfer the following summer, has been a virtual ever-present ever since and has been top goalscorer two seasons running.

Thirty four goals in just 82 starts emphasises his importance to the side - and Ternent looks like being able to rest easy having secured the services of the striker for the immediate future.