Despite it being ‘football without fans,’ the forthcoming game at Turf Moor between Burnley and Sheffield United, in the ‘war of the roses’ match, three points would prove vital with both sides gunning to finish in a place in Europe after the 38 league games have been played out.
Since the restart, Burnley has won their last two out of the three fixtures played thus far. They started off with a crushing 5-0 defeat at former Premier League Champions Manchester City, before recording 1-0 victories over Watford and Crystal Palace.
This slight run of form has seen the Lancashire side give themselves something of a ‘dark horse’ in the race for Europe. They lay tenth in the table and two points behind today’s opponents Sheffield United.
With Liverpool and Wolves coming up in their forthcoming fixtures, a defeat could prove disastrous and all but put an end to any chance of finishing in a European spot.
The Clarets have a long list of injuries going into this game. They will be without former England international Jay Rodriguez (thigh), who has been doubtful for the last few games. Former Sheffield United defender Matt Lowton (ankle), is also absent through injury.
Sean Dyche will also be without Robbie Brady (groin), Jack Cork (ankle), who is the son of former Blades player, Alan Cork. Johann Berg Gudmundsson (calf), Ashley Barnes (hip), Chris Wood (calf), and Ben Gibson are also sidelined.
With play resuming in the league, it was also agreed by the authorities that clubs are permitted to name an additional two substitutes on the team sheet, whilst they have the ability to make five substitution changes during the game. This is a temporary measure whilst the 20 Premier League clubs fulfil the remaining fixtures.
Last Time
Remaining Blades Fixtures;
08 Jul – Wolverhampton Wanderers (h) 18:00
11 Jul – Chelsea (h) 17:30
15 Jul – Leicester City (a) 20:00
18 Jul – Everton (h) 15:00
26 Jul – Southampton (a) 15:00