Burnley’s heavy metal makes a din

Consistency of selection has been a big factor of Burnley’s superb form this season.
Understanding roles: David Edgar can fill in in a variety of positionsUnderstanding roles: David Edgar can fill in in a variety of positions
Understanding roles: David Edgar can fill in in a variety of positions

Indeed, Clarets boss Sean Dyche has only made three changes in the last nine league games.

But in the last couple of weeks, with a number of injuries and suspensions, the results have continued to come, and Dyche feels much of that is down to everyone understanding their roles in the side.

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The likes of David Edgar, Keith Treacy and Brian Stock have not seen as much football as they may have wished, but when their chance has come, they have slotted seamlessly into the side, and Dychefeels the ideas of one of his old mentors remain important today:

“Years ago with Brian Clough, the whole club knew the structure, the basic requirement of each position.

“We do think there’s a nice clarity, the subs know the expectation, and from that, they have a freedom to go and play.

“Do the basics, but go out and play.

“The football we’ve played has been outstanding at times, but it has to be worked at and pushed.”

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Hard work is at the base of Burnley’s success, playing what Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp this week referred to as “heavy metal” football - louder than the “symphonic” sides like Arsenal and Barcelona.

Dyche said: “The team, as a collective have to work hard, the wide players work ever so hard, our two midfielders, working hard, but smart.

“The team have to play a role, you’ve seen the work of Sam and Ingsy in a pressing style, we’ve been pressing very well - I keep telling them pressing is the new passing.

“If teams want to press and pass the ball, you’ve got to try and get it back, so you have to press them. The best exponents have been Barcelona, you watch through the passing and see them press unbelievably well.

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“I felt it was something we could do, it starts at the front, and enhances chances of keeping a clean sheet.

“It’s something I’ve believed in since I went into the youth team at Watford.

“I was talking about it then, seven years ago. It doesn’t make my opinion the right opinion, but I think it’s important for players to use wisely.

“The players know the tactical structure, the fitness required and the mentality.”