Derek Burns

Derek Burns first attracted attention at Dean Court with his performances as captain of a Bournemouth Schools team which enjoyed a highly successful run in the English Schools Shield Competition. He signed apprentice professional forms in 1966 and began to work his way through the club's junior sides. Before long, he had made the first of a number of Combination appearances, and in addition was a member of the very successful youth side which went to Holland in 1968. Since becoming a full-professional, Derek was a regular member of the Reserve side, and was given his first opportunity in League football in the 1968/69 season. A serious knee injury, which necessitated cartilage cartilage operation has checked his progress. Now he is concen-trating on returning to match fitness, so that once again he can challenge for a first-team place.