2016-17 fan predictions: Burnley
By Harry West, Burnley fan
What are your feelings ahead of the new season?
Similar to our last two campaigns – we’re essentially a strong Championship side that will struggle to hurt teams regularly enough to gain the points to stay up. The majority of the squad has been together for the past three years, so they work well but I think we’re short on quality.
Are you satisfied with your club’s transfer business this summer?
Not particularly. Gudmundsson is a decent signing in midfield and Pope arrives as just back-up to Heaton. Flanagan is a good signing with PL experience but it’s not the defence that concerns me – the back five are PL quality. It’s in creative midfield and up front where I’d like to see us have a few more options.
How is your team likely to line up?
Tried and trusted 4-4-2! In front of Heaton, Flanagan will likely displace one of Lowton or Ward at full-back. Ben Mee and Michael Keane were superb last season and I can’t see Sean Dyche disturbing those two. Boyd and Arfield are used as ‘wingers’ although both would probably rather be central. Gudmundsson’s arrival means one of those may get his wish and compete with Jones and Marney for the two central roles. Vokes and Gray will be the first-choice pairing up front – Gray scored nine in six in pre-season.
Have you got the right man in charge?
Definitely. Some have questioned his reluctance to make changes as the second half wears on in matches but for the most part that is more down to a lack of options to bring off the bench. Some fans are very quick to forget what he’s done at the club.
What do you expect from Liverpool this season?
I think they’re an outside bet for the top four. Klopp has some sort of X-factor about him, although the top six look stronger than ever this season so I’d say fifth or sixth.
If you could have one Liverpool player in your team, who would it be?
Philippe Coutinho. An absolute magician.
Top four (in order)?
United, City, Chelsea, Spurs
Relegated?
Hull, Burnley (sob), Swansea
Who will be the surprise package?
I fancy Boro to be comfortable this season – a bit like Watford last time around.
What is your one wish for the season?
To stay up – please!