Jay Rodriguez said he'll forever look back on the special achievement of making 300 appearances for Burnley.

The striker's appearance in Saturday's win against Bristol City saw him reach the milestone, which is made all the more special being a Burnley boy.

“It’s amazing, it’s 300 more than I ever expected in my life!" said Rodriguez.

"Every appearance is a real honour, it’s still a pinch myself moment every time I step out there. I’m pleased, I’m sure my family will be proud. It’s something that you can look back on and be proud of.”

35-year-old Rodriguez made his senior Burnley debut on 29th December 2007 when he was just 18. Back then did he ever think he'd reach these numbers for the Club?

“No not at all. For me to step out on the pitch my first time that many years ago was something you always work extremely hard for, and believe and dream, but never to get these numbers. So, to reach it and still be equally as hungry as what I was then is something that keeps me driving forward. I want to keep hitting some more, it’s an amazing feeling.”

The striker played over 80 minutes in the Clarets 1-0 win at Ashton Gate at the weekend. A consummate professional that takes care of his training, recovery and eating, is he feeling like there's still lots more to come?

“Yes definitely, it’s the main thing now, it’s the first thing you look at, recovery. I think I’ve been doing it for a long time now, focussing on my recovery and making sure that my body is in the best shape it can be.

“I felt good today and hopefully I can keep doing that.”

Having experienced two spells at the Club making lots of memories along the way, does he have a standout moment so far?

“I’ve got so many, but I think my first goal against Fulham, my parents, my dad even he didn’t believe that! They’re the little moments that give you belief."

There are also the many people he's met over the years that have contributed to his journey, including former Claret player, caretaker manager and academy coach Terry Pashley - who's wise words he's remembered all this time!

“There's been the promotions obviously, and for me meeting the people along the way who have helped me, even through my youth team days. I always mention back to Terry Pashley my youth team coach who was a massive part. I always remember what he said when I first got my contract, you’re looking at a boy but you’re going to become a man. It’s things like that that stay with you.”

The image of a young Rodriguez as a ball boy at Turf Moor watching Ian Wright walk out of the tunnel is also a moment that the forward remembers fondly. Looking back what does he think young Jay would have made of the career he's gone on to have?

“I think he’d say you’re having a laugh!

“No, that moment, it still stays with me, he was like the big superstar, it was probably my first ever encounter with a big superstar. From then you want that feeling. I’ve obviously not got to his heights but it’s still something you try and aim for. I think for that, just enjoy it but make sure you give everything.”

Finally, it's not just on the pitch, off the pitch Rodriguez is an ambassador for Pendleside Hospice and ensures he always makes time to support the local community and the town.

“Of course, it’s a given [for me to do that]. Things like that mean a lot to me because I’m really proud to be able to give back. That was a real proud moment when Pendleside approached me to be the ambassador and I said yes, anything I can do to help I will.

“I think you’ve always got to give back. Everyone in Burnley sticks together and works hard. The Club’s a massive part of the town. I’m so pleased and proud to be a part of it.”