Burnley maintained their brilliant run in the Premier League as they subdued Watford in the Premier League to notch up their eighth win in the top tier. Sean Dyche must be very happy with his side’s performance but they need to build up the momentum for the upcoming games.
The Clarets are set to host Stoke City in a very hush-hush affair. It hasn’t been a good outing for Mark Hughes’s side as they are yet to settle in the Premier League this term. There have been signs of encouragement in their game plan but Hughes has failed to use the potential.
Burnley have been different side altogether as Dyche has managed to instil a different kind of mentality among the Clarets. They are no more the defensive side which they used to be and their approach to the game has been entirely changed. An entertaining attacking lineup backed up by a rigid backline which has performed brilliantly.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Burnley Starting Lineup Against Stoke City
Defence
Nick Pope has been a revelation since Tom Heaton got injured. The second choice goalkeeper has become the preferred choice and has delivered some stupendous performance in the goal.
Ben Mee is still recuperating from a knee injury so Dyche is unlikely to rush things back. James Tarkowski and Kevin Long have performed pretty well and they will be on the line for another appearance.
Matthew Lowton is another absentee and Phil Bardsley will have another shot in the right back position. Stephen Ward will start from the right side of the defence.
Midfield
Jack Cork will have to maintain a perfect decorum in the middle of the pitch. The English international has notched up a few levels since his summer move from Swansea City and he needs to take the midfield under his control.
Steven Defour has been a regular fixture in the midfield and will accompany Cork in the midfield.
Attack
Home form was crucial for the Clarets last season and this season too they have turned the Turf Moor into a fortress. Johann Berg Gudmundsson has shown promise and he will operate from the right wing.
With Robbie Brady injured, Scott Arfield will have a very good chance to cement his position in the starting lineup.
Jeff Hendrick will start in the no. 10 position.
Chris Wood has been a real threat up front and the New Zealand international will lead the line for the Clarets.
