Burnley welcome Luton Town at Turf Moor on Friday evening, hoping to avoid getting cut adrift in the Premier League relegation zone.
The Clarets are second from bottom on 11 points from 20 games, having won just once in their last five Premier League games. They were beaten 3-2 by Aston Villa at Villa Park in their last league fixture on New Year’s Eve before being eliminated from the FA Cup by Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.
However, the Vincent Kompany-managed side’s performances have improved of late and a win could see them close the gap on Luton.
Burnley Team News
Both Charlie Taylor and Lyle Foster were forced off during Burnley’s FA Cup defeat to Tottenham and will be assessed ahead of the game against Luton. Foster hobbled off the pitch with a suspected foot problem, while Taylor was taken off during the second half with a shoulder problem.
Jordan Beyer picked up a knock in the match against Aston Villa on New Year’s Eve and subsequently missed the FA Cup tie against Spurs. However, he could be back for the visit of Luton. Meanwhile, Sander Berge will be available for selection again after serving a one-game suspension for being sent off against Aston Villa.
Predicted Burnley lineup vs Luton Town (4-4-2)
Goalkeeper
James Trafford has been a permanent fixture in goal for Burnley in the Premier League this season. The England youth international should start against Luton, hoping to keep a clean sheet at Turf Moor.
Defence
With Charlie Taylor a big doubt, Jordan Beyer could return after shaking off a minor knock and walking straight into Vincent Kompany’s first XI at left-back. Hannes Delcroix and Dara O’Shea should pair up again in central defence, with Vitinho retaining his place at right-back.
The Burnley back four have to be on their toes and defend extremely well against a physical Luton side, especially from set-pieces.
Midfield
Having served his suspension, Sander Berge should take his usual No.6 role for the Clarets. The Norwegian will slot in alongside Josh Brownhill in the middle of the park, with the duo tasked with controlling the tempo of the game.
Anass Zaroury and Wilson Odobert will provide width, creativity and dynamism from the right and left wing, respectively. Kompany will expect them to be fearless and take on Luton wing-backs.
Attack
Lyle Foster is a doubt for this game, so Jay Rodriguez could be given the nod to start here. He will form a two-pronged attack with Zeki Amdouni, who has been among Burnley’s rare bright sparks in an otherwise disappointing return to the top flight.