2017 hasn’t been a good one so far for Burnley. The Clarets haven’t managed a single win since January and are languishing at the bottom half of the table. Burnley have an outstanding record at Turf Moor. They have won nine times, drawn one and have lost four times this season which is quite good and they will try to gain as much as possible from the upcoming matches.
But on the contrary, their away form has been awful. They are currently 15th in the Premier League and will face a resilient Stoke City to take a step ahead towards their confirming their survival. Sean Dyche has a bunch of gritty players who can push themselves to give their utter best on the pitch.
Michael Keane and Ben Mee have found an indomitable partnership at the heart of the defence. But The Clarets haven’t been able to produce goals. Andre Gray has adapted to the Premier League wonderfully but hasn’t been able to convert chances into goals. Stoke are a very stringent side and they will make Burnley hard to find a gap in the defence.
Predicted 4-4-2 Burnley Lineup Against Middlesbrough
Defence
Tom Heaton has been one of the most standout keepers in the Premier League and has been the saviour of Burnley on many occasions. He will once again take the field to stop anything that comes his way.
Defensively the Clarets have been pretty sound this season. Michael Keane has had an outstanding season so far and got an England call up recently for his performance with the Clarets. Ben Mee has also partnered him well and will start in the defence alongside him.
Matthew Lowton is having a wonderful season and would like to continue in the right back position.
Stephen Ward will be at the left back position.
Midfield
Creativity has been a problem for the Clarets. Joey Barton might be a controversial figure but when it comes to putting pressure on opponents, there are hardly any players better than him in the squad.
Jeff Hendrick will be alongside him and will try to win the midfield battles.
Attack
Scott Arfield has played the most number of games on the left side in this season and should continue there.
George Boyd’s height and pace could create an outlet for the Clarets and he is likely to be on the right flank.
Andre Gray has been pretty inconsistent although he has already found the net nine times this season. He has to take his chances upfront and partnering him will be Ashley Barnes.
