[2] Burnell started his career with Bristol City and he became part of the first team squad at Ashton Gate halfway through the 1999–2000 season.
[7] Burnell joined Wycombe Wanderers in July 2004 after Tony Adams' summer clearout which saw the departure of Michael Simpson, Dannie Bulman, Steve Brown and Darren Currie.
[8] Burnell was hoping to gain a regular first team place and after a season blighted by injury and illness he formed a midfield trio with Matt Bloomfield and Keith Ryan.
[10] During his time at Northampton was constantly a good performer being named captain on occasions in the absence of Chris Doig and Mark Hughes.
[15] It was announced on 14 May 2010 that he had been released by Exeter, along with 8 other players [16] On 13 July 2010, Burnell joined Conference National side Bath City.