Rather than bore you all with a second Burnley-related ones to watch within a week, I thought I’d spend some time looking at Saturday’s game and the opportunities it represents.
We’ve been desperately unfortunate with injuries this season and I can’t remember a time when lady luck has been so cruel, especially during such a short space of time.
The lads in the medical department and beyond – fitness coaches, masseurs and many more – deserve enormous credit for their work this season, but when one door closes another opens, and this weekend could represent a cracking chance for our academy boys.
2016 was a superb year for the club’s youth set-up and everyone who played their part can have immense pride at the success enjoyed throughout the age groups.
But what really stood out, and most important of all, was the impact at first-team level.
Duncan Watmore was the first to make his mark and we’ve really missed his desire and directness since he was sidelined, with Lynden Gooch following suit as his performances led to international acclaim.
And then there’s Jordan Pickford.
There’s very little I can say that hasn’t already been said about Jordan – plus I don’t want to make his head any bigger – but he’s been nothing sort of immense and it’s fantastic to see a local lad taking Wearside by storm.
Now I have no insider info, but this weekend you would expect both sides to make changes following a gruelling festive schedule.
It’s testament to the boys’ desire that they performed as well as they did against Liverpool, with less than 48 hours separating a brilliant point from a day to forget at Turf Moor.
Let’s not beat around the bush, we owe Burnley one this weekend and I don’t think anyone at my former club will be expecting anything other than a really tough afternoon.
In pre-season the under-23s were heavily involved and I would expect that to be the case this weekend.
Joel Asoro was very assured in the summer and he impressed during the EFL Cup game against Shrewsbury Town, so he’s one to keep an eye out for.
The 17-year-old has been on the fringes this season and he’s been named in the squad on a few occasions, with Josh Maja and Elliot Embleton – just 18 and 17 – enjoying similar experiences.
George Honeyman has also been in the mix, as has former Premier League 2 Player of the Month winner Ethan Robson, so these boys will relish the opportunity to impress if they’re called upon.
The game also provides a chance for players like Jack Rodwell, who I thought played really well against Liverpool, with an opportunity to build on their fitness because every player will be needed between now and the end of the season.
As for the academy boys, my advice would be simply to enjoy the experience and leave nothing in the tank because the Stadium of Light is a wonderful place to play, but an even better place to win.
Kevin Ball
