Club legend Kevin Ball selects his ones to watch within the Burnley ranks ahead of Saturday’s game at the Stadium of Light, as the Black Cats and the Clarets do battle for the fourth time this season.
Injuries: Gudmundsson, Defour, Marney, Long.
Andre Gray
I highlighted the threat posed by Andre Gray earlier in the season and, unfortunately, he proved me right. I was there on New Year’s Eve when he ran riot at Turf Moor and had a similar impact as the Clarets progressed in the FA Cup, so he’ll be fired up this weekend and sense more goals. We’ve reverted to three at the back in the past – before Jason Denayer missed out on the last couple of games – and it could be a wise option this weekend because a high defensive line could once again allow Gray to have a big impact.
Robbie Brady
Last season Norwich City almost stayed up and had they done so Robbie Brady would have been one of the factors behind their success. In the end, our form was one of the things which led to the Canaries’ demise but it didn’t take long for Robbie Brady to return to the top flight – and it’s where he belongs. He’s versatile, he’s hard working and he fits seamlessly into the way Burnley play and what they represent. Above all else, though, Brady is a real threat moving forward and his set pieces are deadly, so the Lads must be on their toes and Jordan Pickford, who has already shown his quality since returning to the side, must be at his best.
Tom Heaton
Like Sunderland, Burnley have an England international between the posts and Tom Heaton has certainly earnt the plaudits he’s received this season. The Clarets have been incredible at home and although they’ve often stuttered on the road, Heaton has consistently performed at the very top level. No stopper has made more saves than Heaton in the Premier League with Ben Foster and Pickford completing the top three, and sometimes he’s simply unbeatable having notched six clean sheets in the league this season.
Michael Keane
Another key behind Burnley’s resolute defence is Michael Keane. The Manchester United academy product has so far come out on top against Jermain Defoe this season – very few defenders can say that – and he’ll once again be pivotal to any success Burnley enjoy this weekend. No Premier League player has made more blocks than Keane, with centre back partner Ben Mee ranking second, and the duo also rank in the top four for PL clearances. Keane, though, is the leader at the back and it’s no surprise to see him being linked with many of the top-flight’s elite sides.
Joey Barton
I’m sure Joey will get a lovely reception when he takes to the field this weekend, but credit where it’s due because he’s returned to Burnley and played a big part in the side. It didn’t work out for him at Rangers but under Sean Dyche he’s slotted straight back in, and we know exactly what he’ll bring to the game this weekend. His rivalry with us will only add to the drama and both him and the fans will be feed off the pantomime atmosphere, so he’s definitely one to watch.
