Burnley predicted team to face Blackburn Rovers as Scott Parker faces two key dilemmas – gallery
Scott Parker’s men make the short trip to Ewood Park on Saturday lunchtime looking to get back to winning ways after back-to-back goalless draws.
After being unfortunate to beat Middlesbrough in their final outing of 2024, the Clarets then served up a lethargic display during their stalemate against Stoke on New Year’s Day.
Despite the result, Burnley still moved up into the top two owing to Sheffield United’s defeat at Sunderland.
They face a Rovers side that ironically did Burnley a favour on Wednesday by snatching a late point at league leaders Leeds United.
Hannibal and new signing Oliver Sonne miss out through suspension, but there’s unlikely to be any other changes in personnel from Stoke given the quick turnaround.
With that in mind, here’s how we think the Clarets might line up for the derby:
1. GK – James Trafford
The stopper will be desperate to keep yet another clean sheet to help Burnley on their way to a derby win after keeping his 14th shutout of the season against Stoke. Photo: Molly Darlington
2. RB – Connor Roberts
The Welshman will face stiffer competition at right-back following the recent signing of Oliver Sonne, although the new recruit is suspended for this game. Photo: Kelvin Lister-
3. CB – CJ Egan-Riley
While Scott Parker looked to rotate on New Year’s Day, he won’t be splitting up his reliable centre-back partnership anytime soon. Photo: Kelvin Lister-Stuttard
4. CB – Maxime Esteve
The Frenchman was at his calm and composed best during the New Year’s Day stalemate against Stoke. Photo: Kelvin Lister-Stuttard
Blackburn transfer latest as Eustace addresses contracts
John Eustace revealed he has given recommendations to the Blackburn Rovers recruitment team and wants the contracts of key players resolved as soon as possible.
The Blackburn Rovers head coach has repeatedly stressed the need for ‘two or three’ quality players to come in and bolster the group in January. It’s understood that a striker, a wide forward and a left-sided defender are positions he’d like to strengthen.
Nothing is imminent at the time of writing but Eustace has passed on names to the recruitment team of players who could come in this month.
“Nothing at the moment, the recruitment team are working very hard so I hope there will be soon,” Eustace said.
READ MORE: ROVERS TEAM NEWS FOR BURNLEY WITH TWO UPDATES
“I think it’s loans and permanent transfers that are being looked at. That’s down to them, they know the areas we need to improve on.
“We have spoken about everyone at the club wanting two or three top quality players to come in now and help this fantastic group of players that have done so well to now in order to keep us pushing up the league.
