Skip to content

Burnley boss Sean Dyche admits options are limited ahead of Europa League clash

Sean Dyche during the UEFA Europa League Second Qualifying Round 1st Leg match between Aberdeen and Burnley at Pittodrie Stadium on July 26, 2018 in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Image: Sean Dyche admits his options are limited ahead of his side's Europa League third qualifying round tie

Sean Dyche is facing something of a juggling act in Turkey given how stretched Burnley's squad is for the Europa League clash against Istanbul Basaksehir.

After narrowly seeing off Aberdeen last week, the Clarets' first European dalliance in 52 years continues against the side that finished third in last season's Super Lig.

Istanbul Basaksehir are likely to prove tough opposition in the third qualifying round, especially given Burnley's lack of options for Thursday's first leg.

"We're a little bit limited and we'll have a few decisions to make," Dyche told a press conference.

Sean Dyche during the Premier League match between Burnley and AFC Bournemouth at Turf Moor on May 13, 2018 in Burnley, England
Image: Dyche says he has only 17 fit players to choose from

"Chris (Wood) has an infection from a bite that has caused a reaction. Steven (Defour) is behind Robbie (Brady) at the moment, so we're down to 17 players.

"But Joe (Hart) and Ben (Gibson) have travelled for a reason - to be included if needed."

With Nick Pope injured and Tom Heaton also unavailable, Hart could make his debut in Istanbul after completing his surprise move from Manchester City.

Also See:

"He's in good shape and clear-minded," Dyche said. "He's still hungry and got a desire to be the best he can be.

"If he's playing well he'll earn the right to play. He knows he'll have to earn it. He's bought into it."

Ashley Westwood of Burnley celebrates after Ashley Barnes scores during the UEFA Europa League Second Qualifying Round match between Burnley and Aberdeen at Turf Moor on August 2, 2018 in Burnley, England.
Image: Burnley beat Aberdeen to set up a third-round tie with Istanbul Basaksehir

While Hart and fellow new boy Gibson could feature, striker Matej Vydra has stayed at home after his move from Derby.

"He's a bit behind the curve fitness-wise," Dyche said. "He's got to catch up, but he's different to the strikers we've got.

"He offers a different positional sense, can work off the shoulder or in a number 10."

Fantasy Football is back!
Fantasy Football is back!

Fantasy just got real. Pick your Sky Sports Fantasy Football team for free here.

Around Sky