STEVE McClaren admits he thought Derby County had lost player-of-the-year Craig Bryson to Burnley.
Bryson was wanted by the newly-promoted Clarets as they prepare for life in the Premier League.
He spoke to them about a move but Derby were equally keen to keep hold of the Scottish international.
They rejected Burnley's bid and offered Bryson a new five-year deal which he has signed.
He had two years to run on his previous deal. Now his contract runs to 2019 and McClaren is delighted at the work being done by the club in keeping last season's squad together.
"That is what we wanted, first and foremost. We didn't want to lose any players. Sam Rush (chief executive) and Chris Evans (head of football operations) have done that, and they have done a terrific job," said the head coach.
"We thought we had lost Craig Bryson. I didn't think we would keep hold of him.
"The first day he came back for pre-season training it seemed as though we had lost him but everybody in the dressing room has worked hard on him, we have all worked hard on him, and in the end Sam Rush and Chris Evans have got it over the line and he stays.
"What a great boost. It is like a new signing.
"He is one of the first names on the team sheet and the thought of losing a damn good player wasn't a good one, so it is pleasing to have him signed up."
Burnley believed they could land Bryson for £750,000 due to a clause in his contracted and also offered the chance to play in the top flight.
"Craig Bryson wants to play in the Premier League - everybody wants to play in the Premier League," said McClaren.
"Burnley have gone up. They did very well last season and they saw value in Craig Bryson.
"There was one or two little things over a clause in his contract but we are delighted it never actually came to that."
Asked if he said anything to Bryson, McClaren replied: "No, we just had to lock him in a cupboard after training and then let him out every morning for training!"
