Burnley will travel to Anfield on Sunday, as they prepare to take on fourth-placed Liverpool in the Matchweek 28 of the Premier League.
The Clarets haven’t been in the best of form lately, having not won in five of their last games. They come into the game against Liverpool on the back of a late 3-2 defeat against Swansea City. But Sean Dyche’s men will derive confidence from the fact that they had pinned Liverpool down to a 2-0 defeat at home earlier this season.
Burnley will welcome their influential goalkeeper Tom Heaton back into the fold for the Sunday’s encounter after he missed out against the Swans due to illness. Midfielder Steven Defour is also expected to be fit, but may not get any time on the pitch. Ashley Barnes returns from suspension, while Johan Berg-Gudmundsson and Dean Marney remain sidelined. Joey Barton will be available for selection after an FA hearing against him involving illegal betting charges was postponed.
Predicted Burnley Line-Up to Face Liverpool
Formation: 4-4-2
Tom Heaton (GK)
The 30-year old shot-stopper missed the game against Swansea due to illness. But should be reinstated to the line-up for Sunday.
Matthew Lowton (RB)
The first-choice right-back has struggled for consistency over large periods this season for Burnley. He will have a hard time dealing with Philippe Coutinho.
Michael Keane (CB)
The former Manchester United man has been one of the best defenders in the league this season. One of the first names on the team sheet for Sean Dyche.
Ben Mee (CB)
The 27-year old Englishman has been the perfect partner for Keane in the backline. Together they have been brilliant for Burnley but will have a tough task on their hands against Liverpool.
Stephen Ward (LB)
It will be Stephen Ward at the left-back as the Irishman has been solid at the back for Burnley. However, on Sunday, he will have his hands full going up against the dangerous Sadio Mane.
George Boyd (RM)
Another sure starter, Boyd enjoys the trust of his manager and will once again start on the right-hand side of the midfield for the Clarets.
Jeff Hendrick (CM)
In the midfield, it will be summer signing Jeff Hendrick. With doubts over the fitness of Steven Defour, and Dean Marney being sidelined for a long time, the Irishman will have a huge role to play.
Ashley Westwood (CM)
Partnering Hendrick in the middle of the park will be Ashley Westwood. The January arrival has impressed in his brief spell and having sat out in the previous game, he should replace Joey Barton.
Robbie Brady (LM)
The former Hull City and Norwich City man has been an excellent piece of business for Burnley, having arrived in the winter transfer window. He will keep his place on the left-hand side of the midfield.
Ashley Barnes (ST)
The captain missed the Swansea game due to suspension last weekend. And despite his replacement Sam Vokes impressing against the Swans, Barnes will return to the playing XI.
Andre Gray (ST)
Alongside Barnes, it will the club’s leading goalscorer Andre Gray. The striker scored twice for Burnley and enjoyed playing Liverpool last time the two sides met. He will have a huge say if the Clarets are to get something from the game.