Dyche Reveals Injury Concerns

Sean Dyche says he still has a couple of fitness concerns ahead of Burnley’s visit to his former club Watford on Saturday.

Johann Berg Gudmundsson is touch and go after missing Burnley’s last two fixtures with a thigh injury while defensive pair Matt Lowton and Phil Bardsley are both carrying unspecified knocks.

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Midfielder Steven Defour and defender Stephen Ward are in contention after featuring for the Under-23s earlier this week although goalkeeper Nick Pope will definitely miss out along with the suspended Robbie Brady.

Dyche said: “We’re waiting on Johan. He is getting better but I think it will be a judgement – between him, the physios and ourselves (on Friday).

“Bardo has still got a bit of a knock – he managed to get through last week – as has Matt Lowton. We’re hopeful on possibly both, certainly we’re very hopeful on one being able to be fit.

“Steven got 75 minutes in an Under-23 game, so that means he’s continuing to get back on himself and right.

Wardy the same. “Popey’s had another full game, not there yet but looking well and enjoying his work in training, so he’s kind of at the end of his pre-season, if you like.

We’ll keep monitoring that. Robbie’s obviously suspended. “We’re still stretched, we’re still looking to get back to a full squad, it’s been difficult this season but that’s what we’re looking to achieve.