Burnley’s perfect July: Holding onto Pope and signing West Brom star

Exploring Burnley’s July: Holding onto key players and signing Jay Rodriguez

Burnley have made a long-awaited return to Europe after 60 years. The Clarets will be competing in the Europa League next season and Sean Dyche’s men aim to carry their momentum into Europe. The club have vastly progressed under manager Sean Dyche, who has been an immense presence for the Clarets.

Burnley finished 7^th in the league, defying all odds, conceding just a total of 39 goals across the campaign. The club were defensively solid and organised. Sean Dyche will now be aiming to take this team to new heights next season. It’s going to be a special year for Burnley as they bid to make a strong start to their European adventure next season. Here we take a look at how July could be a successful month for the club.

Holding onto the best players

It’s simple. If any team wants to move forward, they are going to have to hold onto their best players. Burnley should especially consider doing so after returning to Europe. They are going to need all hands on deck as the club competes in the Europa League next season.

Sean Dyche should aim to hold onto goalkeeper Nick Pope who had an impressive season with the club. He was an able deputy in the absence of Tom Heaton and it is certain Pope is going to be Burnley’s future.

The manager could rotate between Heaton and Pope for domestic and European games in order to keep the pair fresh at all times. Sean Dyche should also hold onto defender James Tarkowski who had an excellent campaign with the Clarets.

Acquiring Jay Rodriguez

Burnley weren’t exactly the most free-flowing attacking side that was raking up the goals. They often looked blank and toothless going forward and could use a few new signings to bolster the attack. The club have been linked with former striker Jay Rodriguez. He is a deadly finisher and poacher inside the box.

The striker currently plies his trade with West Bromwich Albion but could be convinced to leave after the Baggies were relegated to the Championship last season. Sean Dyche should certainly go on and sign the striker.

Read more: Tarkowski and Heaton to start – Strongest 4-4-1-1 Burnley XI to face Cork City

The presence of Rodriguez will bring some cohesion into the Burnley attack. Sean Dyche already possesses a number of strikers but Jay Rodriguez could yet be the most influential if he does join.