After successive relegation and promotion, Sean Dyche’s men are proving that jumping between leagues can help build stable foundations.
Burnley manager Sean Dyche
With only 10 games left in the Premier League season, Burnley sit in a comfortable 12th place, perhaps proving once and for all that the “yo-yo” technique can not only work, but help build steady foundations for a strong club.
Though they were relegated after only one season in 2015, there was no shame in Burnley’s approach to their first season back in the top flight. Secure defensive tactics and a reliance on the players that took them up from the Championship were admirable – Sean Dyche’s position as manager never appeared in question.
Now, after rebounding to the EPL after just one season away, they’ve proved the value of a long-term plan, having kept the core of their team largely together. The importance of the role of goalkeeper Tom Heaton should never be underestimated, nor the creative impetus of Ashley Barnes.
New additions, like Jeff Hendrick, Johann Berg Gudmundsson and even the return of Joey Barton, have all proved to be astute signings as the Clarets look to quietly hold their own at the second time of asking.
Andre Gray is taking to scoring in the Premier League even better than Danny Ings, and Dyche will want to keep a strong hold of their main striker when summer comes.
While their season has by no means been perfect – just think back to last month’s FA Cup defeat to non-league Lincoln – Burnley fans can feel satisfied with their approach so far this season, and safe in the knowledge that their future is bright.
Burnley’s Andre Gray in action
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