Chris Sutton and Micah Richards deliver ominous relegation warning to struggling Burnley

Sean Dyche’s side have started the campaign slowly, and currently find themselves 19th in the table, with just two points from their opening seven outings.

Despite already coming up against fellow strugglers Brighton and West Brom, the Clarets are still yet to take all three points from a match, and their tally of three goals is the lowest in the division so far.

But while the club have gained something of a reputation for hitting their stride as the season progresses during their time in the top flight, both Sutton and Richards believe that they could be set for a real battle for survival this term.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, former Blackburn Rovers striker Sutton said: “It doesn't look good for Fulham and West Brom, but then it doesn't look good for Burnley and Sheffield United either. Three of those four seem set to drop down.

“Confidence is a huge factor. Burnley have been well-drilled under Sean Dyche. Likewise, Chris Wilder's team. We'd never deem them disorganised in the past.

“But the way their seasons have started, the confidence is seeping out and that leaves them in trouble.”

Richards added: “The Fulham-West Brom game last week felt like a relegation decider in the sixth week of the season! They both have their work cut out but it is not a fight I can see them winning.

“Joining them? It will be one of Burnley, Sheffield United and Brighton.”