Things are not dire for Burnley.
But they feel that way.
Six points clear of relegation entering tomorrow morning’s match, the Clarets have lost three straight since returning from international play, blowing leads in two of them. Rumors swirled recently about Sean Dyche going to Crystal Palace, which would leave Burnley in a little bit of an identity crisis in the midst of their long term struggle to be a perennial Premier League participator. The vibe is not good.
Anyway, Burnleys play tomorrow morning. Early morning here in the states, so we’re posting this today.
Whom:
Burnley vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
What:
EPL match number 33 of 38 for the Clarets.
Where:
Wolverhampton
When:
6:00 AM American Central Daylight Time
How to Watch:
NBCSN! Should I get up early? We shall see.
What’s at Stake:
Relegation, kind of. Here’s Burnley’s section of the table:
15. Newcastle: 36 points, -18 goal differential (33 games played)
16. Brighton: 34 points, -5 goal differential (32 games played, play last-place Sheffield United this afternoon)
17. Burnley: 33 points, -19 goal differential (32 games played entering tomorrow)
18. Fulham: 27 points, -18 goal differential (33 games played)
19. West Brom: 24 points, -34 goal differential (32 games played, play Aston Villa tomorrow afternoon)
In the best-case scenario, Burnley wins by two goals and passes Newcastle for 15th while Brighton loses or draws, distancing the Clarets from the relegation pack and putting two teams of space between them and disaster.
In the worst-case scenario, another loss leaves Burnley’s eyes widening while West Brom wins and makes it two teams within six points.
The Odds:
I’m seeing Burnley at +275 to win, +230 to draw, and +105 to lose, meaning they’re slight favorites to at least get a point, but sizable underdogs to win.
Burnley News:
Ashley Barnes, Robbie Brady, and Kevin Long remain out. Nick Pope is questionable.
Bertie News:
Happy birthday, James.
