Last Updated: Mon, 12 Nov 2012 15:07
Charlie Austin has played down talk he could leave Burnley in January to join Aston Villa, claiming he is happy at Turf Moor.
The former Swindon striker is the highest scoring forward in Europe this season with 20 goals in 19 matches, a better strike rate than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Austin's form in front of goal hasn't gone unnoticed as speculation has already begun to circulate suggesting the Clarets will have a fight on their hands to retain the 23-year-old in January.
Aston Villa are thought to have taken an interest in Austin as they line-up a potential replacement for Darren Bent, whose future at Villa Park remains up in the air.
Should Paul Lambert pursue his interest in Austin then he could face competition from Reading and Newcastle for the £5million-rated forward.
Austin may take some convincing to leave Lancashire as well, insisting he is happy to stay as he is relishing his role as the club's talisman.
"I'm here to play for Burnley football club," Austin told Talksport.
"I'm enjoying my football at the moment and I long to stay here."
Have you an opinion on this story? Put your money where your mouth is and claim a free £25 bet.
