BURNLEY boss Sean Dyche admitted it was a difficult to let striker Sam Vokes leave the club.

The Wales international is set to complete his move to Stoke City for a fee believed to be in the region of £7m with Peter Crouch heading the other way.

Vokes has made more than 250 appearances for the Clarets since joining, initially on loan, from Wolves.

The Molineux outfit are believed to have a 25 per cent sell on fee on any profit on the £350,000 the Clarets paid them in 2012.

Dyche admitted it was tough to see the 29-year-old depart but said the striker was ready for a new challenge.

“Sam has proved what a good player he has been for us,” added Dyche.

“He has not played as regularly lately and he was a little bit frustrated with that.

“He wanted a new challenge and this is an opportunity for him that could work out in many ways.

“I put great value in Sam as a player and a person for what he’s done for himself and the club.

“He became an important figure here but has happened before where players move on and we wish him well.”