Burnley have just announced the arrival of Aaron Lennon from Everton on an undisclosed transfer fee. The 30-year-old had to make the exit after the transfers of Theo Walcott and Cenk Tosun over the past couple of weeks.
He was quoted, “I think I’ve still got a lot to offer. I am only 30 and I still want to play at the highest level. I have missed a bit of football in the last year or so and I just want to get back and play as much as possible.”
The former England international enjoyed the best phase of his career with Tottenham Hotspur and went on to make 364 appearances for the club registering 30 goals and 77 assists. Lennon is as shifty as he is skilful. An out-and-out winger with blistering pace makes him one of the best squad players to provide width to your attacks – something Burnley need at this juncture of the campaign.
Sean Dyche has also signed himself an extension with the club for another four and a half years and this is a huge boost for the fans at Turf Moor. They are enjoying one of their best seasons in top-flight English football and finishing in the 7th spot will make it one of the greatest success stories of a club moving ahead from the EFL Championship.
Dyche’s 4-4-1-1 formation has been the best defensive side but now that Lennon has arrived, he can switch it around and field his men in a more offensive setup.
Defence
Nick Pope has taken over the number 1 spot with Tom Heaton out with a long-term injury. He has been impressive in between the sticks and is motivated to keep his place in the starting XI. He was quoted, “It’s a competition. Like you would have at every club, and as there is with other positions, there’s competition for places.”
Ben Mee and James Tarkowski centre-back pairing have worked well over the season with cover from the wide areas through Charlie Taylor and Matthew Lowton.
Midfield
Steven Defour and Jack Cork have played every league game this season in the holding midfield role and has covered almost every blade of grass. Their presence is crucial to the side on both ends of the pitch.
Aaron Lennon can replace Scott Arfield on the left wing with Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson on the right.
Attack
Ashley Barnes has been leading the lineup and is relentless on the defensive end. His goal scoring could be improved with just 3 in the league so far but is still a better option for Sam Vokes.
Jeff Hendrick is ideal for the shadow striker role.
