When Christian Burgess walks out for Union Saint-Gilloise against Newcastle United in Brussels, it will be another chapter in a career defined by resilience and late-blooming success. The 33-year-old, a history graduate who once studied World War One, understands better than most the symbolism of Belgian resistance against more powerful forces.
“I never imagined I’d play in the Champions League,” Burgess admitted. “To lead a side out against clubs I grew up watching—it feels surreal.”
Last month, Burgess became the oldest English outfield player since Steve Bould in 1998 to make his Champions League debut, helping Union stun PSV Eindhoven 3-1. Rated as BBC Sport readers’ top performer with a score of 9.39, he proved that underdogs can thrive on Europe’s biggest stage.
From university halls to Europe’s elite
Released by Arsenal as a youth player, Burgess turned to academics, completing his degree at Teesside University while signing a first professional contract with Middlesbrough. He went on to play for Peterborough and Portsmouth in the lower leagues before making the bold switch to Belgium in 2020.
Union proved the perfect fit. Built on scouting talent from less heralded leagues, the Belgian champions gave Burgess both responsibility and leadership. “My role is to help young players from places like Estonia, Croatia, and Latvia. Union give them a platform, and I push them to maintain standards,” he explained.
Ross Sykes: From rejection to dream tie
Alongside Burgess is another unlikely English story. Ross Sykes, once released by Burnley for being “too small,” found redemption at Accrington Stanley before Union “took a chance” on him in 2022. Today, the 6ft 5in defender is preparing for the most emotional night of his career.
A lifelong Newcastle fan, Sykes idolised Alan Shearer and grew up watching the Magpies in Europe. When Union were paired with Newcastle in the group stage draw, his teammates erupted, knowing how much it meant to him.
“Playing against your boyhood club in the Champions League—it doesn’t get better than that,” Sykes said. “It would be a dream come true.”
Underdogs with belief
Union are no strangers to punching above their weight. After winning their first Belgian league title in 90 years last season, they’ve carried that spirit into Europe. Their opening win against PSV showed they are “not afraid to face anyone,” according to Sykes.
Burgess sees the bigger picture: “We want to finish in the top 24 of the league phase and earn the chance to face a European giant in knockout football. Perseverance has defined my career, and this team shares that same mindset.”
For Newcastle, a tie against Union might look straightforward on paper. But against two English defenders who built careers the hard way, there’s little room for underestimation.
