Burnley boss Scott Parker issues definitive verdict on Zian Flemming's best position
Scott Parker has issued a clear and definitive verdict over Zian Flemming’s best position for Burnley – he’s a number nine.
The Dutchman arrived at Turf Moor, initially on loan, as a player that had predominately played as a number 10 for his previous club Millwall.
However, the 27-year-old has never really featured there for the Clarets, instead being chosen to lead the line by his manager Scott Parker.
It was a role he performed well in the Championship last season, scoring 14 goals in all competitions. He’s since continued in that position this term after replacing Lyle Foster up top, having missed the start of the campaign through injury.
Having led the line for Burnley for the last five games, Parker has now confirmed
"I see him as that [a number nine],” Parker said. “I know he’s not played in that position before, but I see him as a nine.
"I think last year's experiences and playing in that position for practically every game will put him in good stead and he will only improve.”
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Flemming has four goals in 11 appearances in league and cup this season, with three of those coming in his last four games.
"He’s done fantastically well,” Parker added.
"Obviously he didn't have much of a pre-season. He picked up an injury really early on in the season. But he's come back in with two brilliant finishes against Wolves and again, an incredible finish against West Ham, so I’m really pleased for Zian.
"It's his first time in the league and it gives him that real confidence and that real belief that he can go and score goals in the Premier League, so long may that continue.”
What has Flemming previously said about his best position?
“I used to always play as a number 10 or a nine-and-a-half, whatever you want to call it,” he told the Burnley Express back in July.
"So close behind the striker; play off the striker.
"When I got here, the manager needed me to play as a striker but he wanted me to play as a striker who could drop in sometimes to midfield and create an extra man, so in that sense it is a similar role.
"I didn’t know that people wanted to see me there [in the number 10 role]. For me, if I could pick, that would be my ideal position but it always depends on formation and the tactics the gaffer uses.”
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