sentences:  Burgess was born in Middlesbrough, and began his football career as a youngster with Middlesbrough F.C.He joined Darlington in January 2007, and after impressing in the reserves, made his debut on the final day of the season, as a second-half substitute in a 5–0 defeat at home to Stockport County.His contract was extended for another season, and he was given a squad number, but his only first-team appearance was as a substitute in the FA Cup, and he spent the last few weeks of the season on loan to Northern Premier League Premier Division club Whitby Town.