Southampton vs. Burnley: Opposition threat

Burnley’s ‘Mr Reliable’ that is Ashley Barnes, has proven over the past season or two his importance to Sean Dyche’s plans as an impact sub later in the game, and if not as great back-up option for the first team.

The English-born striker ended the 2017/18 Premier League campaign on nine goals, his best return to date and popped up with crucial goals either off the bench or as part of the starting-lineup – and will hope to top that by starting against Southampton this weekend.

Whoscored.com have the 6ft man down as a great finisher and through ball player, therefore given the chance to create or score chances, Barnes is likely to cause the Saints some problems if not marked or pressed effectively, whether that be by the midfield or defence.

Depending on if Burnley opt for two up-top, and therefore Barnes starting the game, the mentioned Vestergaard will need to rely on his other centre-halve(s), most likely Wesley Hoedt and either Maya Yoshida or Jan Bednarek, to help soak up pressure from the physical presence offered by the Clarets.