Burnley go into the weekend with a real shot at overtaking Arsenal come the end of the season. They have played 36 games this season and have collected 54 points. They are up against Arsene Wenger’s Gunners who are one place above them at sixth. Arsenal have played a game less and have collected 3 points more.
However, hope remains for Sean Dyche’s men who will know that winning the match against Arsenal will bring them on level points with Arsenal albeit having played a game more. So if Arsenal were to fail to register a win in their other two matches after tomorrow, the Clarets could be in with a shout to clinch the sixth and the final European spot for next season.
It would definitely be a cruel farewell for Wenger who saw his team knocked out in the mid-week tie of the Europa League. The legendary Frenchman’s final saving grace will be to keep Arsenal in Europe and the Gunners will know any positive result against Burnley will definitely see them cement their spot in the top six.
However, if Burnley were to make the unthinkable happen, it would be a dream come true for Sean Dyche’s men. A much smaller club when compared to the likes of Arsenal, Burnley have been terrific this season. They have played some excellent, organized football that has made it hard for other teams to break them down.
Dyche has put together a well-drilled, rigid defence in place and with two burly forwards up front and a hardworking midfield in place, Burnley have surprised many in their run in this season. The Clarets will know the importance of this match and they will have to go with the mindset of collecting all three points.
Here is how they are likely to line up for their crucial match against the Gunners that could prove to be a virtual playoff for the sixth spot.
Formation: 4-4-2
Defence
Nick Pope is expected to play in goal. The centre backs for the match are likely to be James Tarkowski and Kevin Long. Stephen Ward can be expected to play at left back with Matthew Lowton expected to play at right back.
Midfield
Johann Berg Gudmundsson is expected to play on the left flank with Aaron Lennon operating from the right. Ashley Westwood and Jack Cork are expected to play in central midfield.
Attack
Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood are likely to be the two forwards.
