Burnley played their first match in 51 years in the Europa League qualifiers against Aberdeen after their high flying season last term which saw them finish seventh. However, they have been dealt a massive blow as their English custodian Nick Pope suffered a serious shoulder injury in the 1-1 draw. The 26-year-old was a standout performer for the Clarets last season as he grabbed the opportunity with both hands when Tom Heaton was out due to injury.
On the back of strong performances, Sean Dyche found it tough to bring back Heaton in the playing eleven even though he happened to be the club captain. The 26-year-old was even picked up by Gareth Southgate for England’s squad for the World Cup. However, he had to be satisfied with a spot on the bench as the manager went on to use Jordan Pickford.
After the game, Dyche was concerned and said,”Nick has gone to the hospital and it certainly looks more serious than not serious at this stage It was a bit of a needless challenge. When he responds to stop the ball going in, I think the lad has caught his arm and knocked it back, so we’ll just have to wait and see.”
The injury happened due to a collision between him and Aberdeen forward Sam Cosgrove. Heaton is still recovering from a calf problem and suddenly the Clarets look short in the goalkeeping department if Pope is out with a serious injury. However, there is still some time to go in the transfer market and Dyche can go after one of the possible goalkeepers listed below.
Keiren Westwood
The Sheffield Wednesday custodian is one of the best goalkeepers of the Championship and there are strong reports that the Owls want to sell him in the summer as they want to balance their books. The Irish international has the experience of playing in 270 games in the Championship and can fill in the role of a goalkeeper at Turf Moor until the likes of Heaton and Pope get back to their best.
Rob Elliot
Ever since Rafael Benitez signed Martin Dubravka on a permanent basis, Elliot’s chances of playing in the Premier League looks slim. With Karl Darlow being the other option, moving away from St. James Park will be a good idea for the Englishman. Dyche can certainly make a move for Elliot in the transfer market.
Read More: Burnley Set To Bring In Exciting English Prodigy To Turf Moor: Dyche Planning Ahead?
Joe Hart
The fallen English star has been looking for prospective clubs as it is clear that he doesn’t have a future at Manchester City. Given the experience he has, he can definitely be a good bet for Burnley. Hart seems determined and hungry to get back to his best and the Clarets can provide him with a final opportunity to showcase his talent in the English division.
