Burnley suffered a bitterly disappointing 2-0 defeat to Brentford yesterday as Ivan Toney netted a late double and Nathan Collins saw red in stoppage time.
The Clarest only needed a point to move out of the relegation zone but could find themselves four points adrift depending on Everton and Leeds United’s results today and tomorrow.
“It’s just a reality, it’s not a big blow, we’ve still got 11 games to go,” said head coach Sean Dyche.
“It’s the reality of the Premier League, we know it well.
“There’s not a lot wrong with the performance; we were on the ascendancy, creating chances, then we give away a really poor goal.
“There’s a big frustration. The marvel of a team performance is that when you can’t find that win, don’t lose! T
“Today was that kind of feeling because it felt like we were in the ascendancy, we had a large part of the game, we kept them down to minimal chances for a home side.”
Burnley were due to face Southampton in their next Premier League match but the Saints have FA Cup duties that take priority so the Clarets will now not be back in action until after the international break when they face Manchester City on April 2.
Away from the pitch, here are the transfer rumour stories making the headlines on Sunday morning:
5. Salah keen on Premier League stay
Mohamed Salah wants to stay in the Premier League if he cannot agree a new contract with Liverpool (Football Insider) | Getty Images
6. Collins tips Tarkowski for Three Lions
Burnley centre back Nathan Collins feels defensive partner James Tarkowski, who could be set to ext Turf Moor in the summer, deserves to be a part of the England conversation (Burnley express) | Getty Images
7. Brighton leading chase for Blackburn striker
Brighton are leading the chase for Blackburn Rovers frontman Ben Bereton-Diaz ahead of West Ham, Crystal Palace, Everton and Leeds United (TeamTalk) | Getty Images
8. Newcastle eager to keep hold of Longstaff
Newcastle United have entered contract discussions with Sean Longstaff with Eddie Howe and senior figures at the club eager for the midfielder to sign a new long-term deal (The Times) | Getty Images