Predicted Burnley Line-up To Face Manchester City In The FA Cup
Burnley will travel to the Etihad Stadium, to face off against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, in the third round of the FA Cup.
The Clarets had a great start to the 2017/18 season, but have hit somewhat of a rough patch during the festive period, having gone without a single win in their last five games. They were beaten 2-1 by Liverpool on the New Year’s Day. Manager Sean Dyche will be hoping that his side manages to put in a solid display against the Premier League leaders and advance further in the cup competition.
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Defender Stephen Ward remains a doubt for the Clarets, along with club record signing Chris Wood, while captain Tom Heaton and winger Robbie Brady are out for the long-term.
Here’s how Dyche might set out his players against the rampant Cityzens:
Manager: Sean Dyche
Formation: 4-4-1-1
Anders Lindegaard (GK)
The former Manchester United man could be in line to make his first appearance for the Clarets, since joining them in September.
Matthew Lowton (RB)
Having been injured for the past few games, Matthew Lowton could return to the starting XI, with Phil Bardsley making way.
James Tarkowski (CB)
Has been one of the best players for the Clarets this term and is unlikely to be dropped for the cup tie at the weekend.
Ben Mee (CB)
Given City’s attacking prowess, Dyche might look to go with his established defensive pairing, meaning Ben Mee could start alongside Tarkowski against his former team.
Charlie Taylor (LB)
With Stephen Ward still sidelined, former Leeds United man Charlie Taylor is expected to continue in the left-back slot.
Johann Berg Gudmundsson (RM)
The Iceland international has been a consistent performer for the Turf Moor outfit this season. Scored in the midweek loss against Liverpool and should retain his place on the right-hand side.
Steven Defour (CM)
The Belgian is enjoying a fine season in his sophomore year with the Clarets. A key cog in the midfield, he should start at the Etihad.
Jack Cork (CM)
The former Swansea City man has been another major positive for Burnley since his summer move. Most likely to start alongside Defour.
Scott Arfield (LM)
With Robbie Brady out for a long period, Dyche has little option but to continue playing with Scott Arfield on the left flank.
Jeff Hendrick (SS)
The Irishman has been impressing playing just behind the main striker. Should find himself starting in a similar role against the Cityzens.
Sam Vokes (ST)
The Welsh forward hasn’t started a game in a very long time and could get the chance to lead the line against City, in place of Ashley Barnes.