Full Name: Daniel Johnson Burn
Date of Birth: 9 May 1992
Place of Birth: Blyth, England
Height: 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
Position(s): Defender
Current Club: Newcastle United
Jersey Number: 33
Whenever we discuss Dan Burn, his towering presence on the football pitch isn’t the only thing that stands out. The 6'7" defender, known for his impressive aerial ability and commitment to his teams, has quite a story beyond his performances on the field.
Albeit somewhat quieter than most players in the spotlight, whether on or off the pitch, Burn’s journey is one of perseverance and passion. From his humble beginnings to becoming a fan favourite, there’s much more to Dan Burn than meets the eye.
10 Jaw-dropping Facts About Dan Burn From Childhood in Newcastle
1. He started his football career as a goalkeeper
It’s hard to imagine now, given his role as a towering defender, but Burn first found his footballing feet between the sticks. As a kid, he played as a goalkeeper before switching to an outfield role.
That early experience helped shape his game, giving him a goalkeeper’s eye for positioning and an impressive command of aerial duels. Maybe that’s why he’s so fearless when it comes to heading the ball!
2. He Grew up supporting Newcastle United and had a season ticket
For Burn, playing for Newcastle United isn’t just a career move—it’s a childhood dream realised. Growing up in Blyth, he was a die-hard Magpies fan, idolising Alan Shearer and attending games at St James’ Park with a season ticket.
The black-and-white stripes weren’t just a kit to him; they were a passion, a symbol of home. Years later, when he finally got to wear them as a professional, it was a moment of pure footballing destiny.
3. Had a part-time job at his local Asda supermarket as a teenager
Before making it as a professional footballer, Dan Burn experienced the grind of a regular job like many teenagers. As a 16-year-old, he balanced his studies with shifts at his local Asda supermarket, stacking shelves and working the tills to earn some extra cash.
It was a far cry from the roar of football stadiums, but that experience grounded him, teaching him the value of hard work long before he stepped onto the pitch as a pro.
4. Newcastle United released him at age 11
Despite his love for Newcastle, Burn’s first experience with the club was a tough one. At just 11 years old, he was let go from their youth setup—a crushing blow for any aspiring footballer.
Many might have given up then and there, but Burn’s story is one of perseverance. He didn’t dwell on rejection; instead, he took it as motivation to prove himself elsewhere, setting the stage for an inspiring career that eventually led him right back to St James’ Park.
5. He Lost a Finger in a Freak Accident
Burn’s imposing frame makes him stand out on the pitch, but one detail many fans don’t immediately notice is his missing ring finger on his right hand. At just 13, he suffered a freak accident that resulted in its loss. But rather than let it define or deter him, Burn turned it into a source of resilience. He often jokes about it, once saying, "It hasn't stopped me heading a ball!".
6. Darlington opened the door to his professional football career after signing him from Blyth Spartans
Burn’s professional journey truly began when Darlington spotted his potential while he was playing for Blyth Spartans. The move was a major stepping stone, as Darlington gave him his first taste of first-team football.
Despite the club’s financial struggles, they handed him opportunities that would shape his career, proving that talent, when matched with perseverance, finds a way through.
7. He is a versatile left-footed defender
Standing at 6’7”, Burn is often perceived as a traditional center-back, but he’s far more than just a big man in the backline. His left foot gives him a unique versatility, allowing him to play as a full-back, center-back, or even in a back three. Whether bombing forward to support attacks or shutting down wingers with his surprising agility, Burn’s adaptability makes him a manager’s dream.
8. He is the oldest England debutant since Kevin Davies
Burn’s journey to the England squad wasn’t one of overnight success—it was years in the making. At 32, he finally earned his first England cap under Thomas Tuchel, making him the oldest Three Lions debutant since Kevin Davies.
Lining up against Albania in the World Cup qualifiers on March 21, 2025, he proved that hard work and persistence can defy age and expectations. His debut wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was an inspiration to late bloomers everywhere.
9. He Won Wigan’s Player of the Year award in 2017
In a season where Wigan battled fiercely in League One, Burn stood tall—literally and figuratively. His commanding performances in defence, coupled with his leadership and consistency, saw him claim the club’s prestigious Player of the Year award in 2017.
For a player who had quietly worked his way up the leagues, this accolade was a sign that he was truly making a name for himself.
10. He is a family man, married to Roz and has two children
Beyond the pitch, Burn’s greatest pride isn’t in football—it’s in his family. Married to Roz, a fellow North Easterner from Cramlington, Burn keeps his personal life relatively private, but it’s clear his wife and two children mean everything to him.
Whether celebrating victories or unwinding from the pressures of the game, his family is his foundation, keeping him grounded no matter how high he soars in his career.
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