Why Burnley have saved a lot of money by avoiding Craig Dawson

Back in May, a report from the Sun had claimed that Burnley were preparing to make a record £15m bid for then West Brom defender Craig Dawson. In the end, the Clarets failed to sign the defender and he went on to join Watford during the summer transfer window.

The report adds Sean Dyche has been a fan of Craig Dawson and was keen to sign him for a number of years now. Dawson was a long-serving member of West Brom’s team, but his performances in the Championship did not stand out as much as many expected last season.

The 29-year-old was predicted to be one of the Baggies’ key players over the past campaign, but he was shaky at times. Yet, Watford landed the defender.

Watford had reasons to sign a new central defender and knowing Dawson’s versatility, experience and know-how, Javi Gracia signed him from West Brom. However, the transfer hasn’t vindicated so far with the club sacking Javi Gracia and replacing him with Quique Sanchez Flores earlier this week.

The Hornets currently are rock bottom in the table, yet to win a game. And a series of poor results led to Gracia’s sacking.

In the first four Premier League games, Watford have conceded eight goals. Gracia had preferred to pair Craig Cathcart with Dawson in central defence but the duo has royally struggled.

Dawson, in particular, has struggled to show any authority at the back for his new club. The idea of him coming in and solving the Hornets’ defensive woes haven’t gone according to the scripts as of now.

Burnley’s lack of options in defence might hurt them this season, but failing to sign Dawson is turning out to be a blessing in disguise.

Sean Dyche already has a settled central defensive pairing of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee at the moment and it is difficult seeing Dawson breaking into the team. The 29-year-old can also play at right-back but he is a central defender by trade.

To Read More Burnley News, Click Here:-Latest Burnley News

Not to forget, the likes of Kevin Long and Ben Gibson are waiting on the wings for their chances. Burnley spent a lot of money on Gibson last summer but the move hasn’t worked out.

Despite that, it would have been really harsh on Dyche’s part if he would have flogged Gibson this summer after just one season at Turf Moor.

Verdict

Going by Dawson’s displays for Watford this season, the defender’s powers are on the wane. Thus, we could conclude by saying that Burnley dodged a bullet by splashing £15m on the former West Brom man.