Arfield - ‘Barnes can fill Ings void’

Ings missed Saturday’s 2-1 win over Leeds at Turf Moor with an ankle problem which is set to keep him out for a couple of weeks.

But Arfield - one of seven players to find the net for the Clarets so far in March - feels the squad can compensate for the loss of the 25-goal striker.

Ahead of tomorrow’s trip to struggling Charlton Athletic, Arfield said: “Ingsy’s a phenomenal player.

“To not have that trickiness up front but to have Barnesy coming in, he was different class with his link-up play and his hold-up - he’s a handful for anybody, similar to big Vokesy.

“It’s another great partnership, and hopefully in weeks to come if Danny’s still struggling, hopefully we can get a few goals off them.”

Burnley, with 10 games remaining, are in an envious position, 10 points clear of Derby and QPR, and 14 clear of Wigan, who have a game in hand and have still to come to Turf Moor.

And Arfield feels the fitness levels which have served the players so well so far this term will serve them in good stead in the run in: “One of our strengths is our resilience.

“I think we’re the fittest in the league and it shows at the back end of games.

“I think that’s the least you can do as a footballer, work hard and be fit and hopefully on the day your ability shines through.”

Arfield was immediately impressed by the squad on his arrival in the summer, and isn’t surprised at how the season is panning out: “You could see how the squad was shaping up and the ability.

“A lot’s been made of the size of the squad, but it’s a quality squad and I don’t think there were any problems showing people what we can do. But it’s every game as it comes. A lot has been made of the size of the squad but the mentality in this league, you’ve got to be strong and I think we’ve got that in abundance. The ability speaks for itself with the two boys up top so you’re always going to score goals.”

Burnley also have competition in the wide positions, where Arfield has performed so well, and he added: “Last Wednesday as well Junior came on and set up Vokesy’s goal, and Ross coming on in the derby. That’s important.”

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