Nicky Hayen doubles down on ‘must-win’ claim

Nicky Hayen has doubled down on his claim that today’s crucial clash against Derby County is “must-win”.

The Clarets head coach made the surprising claim, just seven games into the season, immediately after last weekend’s miserable 3-1 defeat to Swansea City.

That latest loss, Burnley’s fourth already this term, saw Hayen’s side slump to the bottom of the Championship table.

With questions already beginning to be asked about Hayen, just two months into the job, the Belgian appears to have put even more pressure on himself ahead of this afternoon’s fixture at Turf Moor.

But Hayen, speaking on Thursday to preview today’s game against another struggling side, reiterated the claim.

“I already said it, I'm not going to lie, it has to be a must-win game,” he said.

“We're waiting already a really, really long time and everyone is actually craving towards this win.

“I said already before, we just need that spark to change this situation. Of course, a win is the best solution for it. Generally, we're going to look with a lot of courage towards that win.”

When asked to clarify if the game is must-win for him or the players, Hayen added: “For everyone, for the fans, for the board, for the management. Everyone who loves this club is craving for this win.

“We are aware and again, I understand the fans’ frustration, that they're upset, that they're annoyed. I completely understand and I accept it.

“But again, this is not the way how I'm thinking. I want to change this as quickly as possible because they deserve a win after a long time. On Saturday, we have another good opportunity.”