Pundit highlights under-utilised Burnley man could make a difference in survival battle
Scott Parker should consider utilising Ashley Barnes more amid Burnley’s desperate fight for survival.
That’s the view of Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith, who believes the 36-year-old’s experience could prove invaluable as the Clarets battle to cut the gap to safety.
Ahead of Burnley’s return to league action at Liverpool this weekend, Parker’s side languish in 19th place, eight points adrift, having not won a Premier League game in 12 attempts.
They did, however, claim a first win in all competitions since October in impressive fashion last weekend with a 5-1 thrashing of Championship side Millwall.
Barnes was pivotal in that scoreline, scoring two of Burnley’s goals to help secure his side’s passage through to the fourth round, where they’ll now host Mansfield Town.
But did Barnes’ cup showing show Parker what he’s been missing in the league?
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The striker hasn’t started a single league game this term, making just two substitute appearances – totalling just nine minutes.
If Burnley are going to pull off the great escape, Smith believes Barnes is a man that could make a difference.
"He’s 36, but he brings experience that many Burnley players lack at the Premier League level, so perhaps he could play more of a part,” he told BestBettingSites.co.uk.
"He’s never been prolific, but he knows how to lead the line. Scott Parker might use him more.”
Smith has predicted a 2-0 win this weekend for Liverpool, who are unbeaten in their last 11 games.
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