Two key positions Burnley must strengthen in January
After winning just one of the opening six games in the Premier League, Sean Dyche’s Burnley were initially struggling at the wrong end of the points table. Now, 16 games into the season, the Clarets are placed 13th in the table and have bagged 18 points.
Dyche has stuck to his traditional 4-4-2 formation with veteran Ashley Barnes leading the attack alongside Chris Wood.
The duo has contributed 12 of the 20 goals scored by the team this term. Burnley signed Matej Vydra and got back Jay Rodriguez but neither has managed to challenge Wood and Barnes for a spot in the playing XI. With that in mind, let’s take a look at two positions that could use some reinforcements.
Centre-forward
Dyche is short of striking options and come January, spending money on goal-scorers must be his top priority. In McNeil, Lennon and Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson, the Clarets have speedy wingers who can create ample chances for the frontmen.
Barnes and Wood have been playing well lately but neither of them is quick. Being a mid-table side, Dyche’s men have always managed to churn out draws and wins to stay up since their readmission into the Premier League. However, the absence of an out-and-out goal-scorer is fast becoming an issue.
Burnley must contemplate signing a proven striker in the transfer window. There are several top-flight strikers who are struggling for game time and the club must pursue a proven talent.
Centre-back
Another area of concern for Sean Dyche is the defence. Ben Mee and James Tarkowski have been pillars at the back but Ben Gibson has failed to make a mark. Burnley tried to sign Gary Cahill for free in summer, according to The Sun, but the England international joined Crystal Palace.
Also, reports state that Burnley are interested in signing Middlesbrough centre-back Nathan Wood. Although young, Wood has impressed and a move to the Premier League would do wonders for him.
Burnley have conceded 11 goals in the last 3 games against the likes of Crystal Palace, Manchester City and Tottenham. Their defence is letting in too many goals and he needs to sign a player who can add stability to the side.
Come January, Burnley must invest in strikers as they are heavily reliant on Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood. A backup defender to Mee and Tarkowski should also be on Sean Dyche’s mind.
