Nicky Hayen disputes claims over Derby’s late equaliser against Burnley

Nicky Hayen has played down suggestions the late decision to bring off Lucas Pires contributed to the goal Burnley conceded at the death against Derby County.

The Clarets came minutes away from picking up their first three points of the season against the Rams on Saturday, taking a one-goal lead into stoppage-time thanks to Zeki Amdouni’s first-half header.

But Mo Fuseini broke Burnley hearts after the 90 minutes were up, capitalising on acres of space down the right flank/

Only minutes before, Lucas Pires - who had started the game at left-back - was brought off for Oliver Sonne in the 89th minute.

Many believed the change impacted the balance of Burnley’s back four, who were performing just fine as they closed in on a first clean sheet since March.

But Hayen disputes that claim, suggesting Derby’s late leveller was the responsibility of the entire team.

When asked if he thinks the change had a direct involvement in Derby’s equaliser, Hayen said: “No, I don't think so.

“It's a long ball, we lose the duel up front, we lose the second ball in the midfield and then they play a ball through the centre, deep with the speed of Fuseini.

“So no, it's for me a common responsibility of the team.

“We had to play more compact though and this is a basic rule in football. With a goal kick you play as compact as possible, that you're ready for the second ball, and we were not ready. That's the conclusion of that goal.”

Hayen also revealed he instructed his side to take less risks towards the final stages, as they sought to protect what they had.

“It is hard, especially because we took the decision to manage the game at the end,” he added.

“Instead of trying to play football and take a lot of risks, we took the safe option for a long goal kick, be ready for that duel, second ball, and we're not ready to win this.

“Then one ball, concede the chance and a goal, and that's frustrating, especially when you're two minutes away from that victory.”