Analysis: Three Burnley players who could trouble Tottenham
By Dominic Toner
Football Insider analyses three Burnley players would could prove difficult for Tottenham in Sunday’s Premier League meeting at White Hart Lane.
Michael Keane
Burnley defender Michael Keane is arguably the standout player in the squad and should be a difficult opponent for Spurs forward Harry Kane to face. The 23-year-old has been linked with top English clubs Chelsea and Manchester United this season, with the centre-back performing to an extremely high level in a mediocre side. He was called up to England’s senior squad in October to show how much he improving and is still awaiting his first senior international cap. Keane has developed into a crucial player at Burnley and will be very important in their bid for survival. The centre-back is extremely powerful in the air and is likely to dominate the physical battle with Kane. He is also very confident in possession and is showing why he was at Man Untied’s academy as a youngster.
Tom Heaton
The Burnley goalkeeper could end up frustrating the Spurs attackers if he performs how he has been this season. The 30-year-old has been one of the best shot stoppers in the Premier League this season and is used to being kept busy. Spurs are likely to dominate possession against Burnley in the league clash and will need to find a way past a determined goalkeeper. Heaton has been of the club’s best players this season and has kept his side in several games with some outrageous saves. Burnley will be hoping that they can steal a goal on the counter attack through Sam Vokes or Andre Gray and will be reliant on Heaton to have a good game.
Jeff Hendrick
Republic of Ireland international Jeff Hendrick has settled very well at Turf Moor since his £10.5million arrival from Derby in the summer. The central midfielder will certainly let the Spurs players know that they’re in a battle and has shown great desire and tenacity this season. The 24-year-old will look to nullify the threat of Dele Alli, Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele in the midfield. He also shown that he can be deadly in front of goal and scored a goal-of-the-season contender against Bournemouth last Saturday. Hedrick has turned out to be a crucial signing by manager Sean Dyche and he will certainly be a player who could frustrate Spurs’ rhythm on the ball.
In other Tottenham news, Ledley King has answered whether he’d get into the club’s defence right now.