Burnley vs Bournemouth Match Preview: Clarets Chase Survival as Cherries Eye Europe

Burnley look to chase safety as the Cherries set their sights on Europe.

As these two sides meet this Saturday afternoon, there is no doubt that both Scott Parker and Andoni Iraola will view this fixture as a big opportunity to kick-start their teams’ run-ins to the end of the season albeit for very different reasons.

Burnley aim to cling onto the survival fight, while Bournemouth’s attention is firmly focused on climbing further up the table and pushing into the European places.

Goals Expected at Turf Moor

The fixture suggests goals could be on the cards.

Both the hosts and their seaside visitors have been involved in 90 goals across their 29 Premier League games this season, although Iraola’s side hold the highest number of 0–0 draws in the league with four.

Form Guide

Coming into the clash, the league form of the two teams could hardly be more different.

Bournemouth currently possess the longest unbeaten streak in the Premier League, going nine matches without defeat, winning four and drawing five.

Burnley’s form since Christmas has shown improvement compared to the first half of the season, but Parker will be concerned that his side have not won at home in their last 10 matches at Turf Moor.

The Burnley manager will be desperate to ensure his side do not make unwanted history by extending that run to 11 consecutive home games without a victory.

Flemming Injury Concern

Burnley could also be without in-form striker Zian Flemming, who has scored in each of his last two matches and currently sits level on league goals with Jaidon Anthony.

The Dutch forward is a doubt after picking up a knock that forced him to miss the trip to Everton last weekend.

Bournemouth’s Goal Threat

Bournemouth’s top scorer this season remains Antoine Semenyo, although his January transfer to Manchester City means the club’s leading scorer is now Eli Junior Kroupi.

The young forward has impressed in his debut Premier League season, already scoring eight goals.

Bournemouth’s Mixed Record Against Promoted Teams

For the Cherries, their record against promoted teams this season three draws and one defeat may be a concern for Iraola if his side are serious about pushing for European qualification.

However, this fixture may present the perfect opportunity to improve that record.

Team News

Burnley

Burnley face a lengthy injury list heading into Saturday’s match.

Unavailable players include:

• Josh Cullen

• Jordan Beyer

• Mike Trésor

• Axel Tuanzebe

The club’s official Instagram page recently posted images of Zeki Amdouni and Connor Roberts returning to training following long-term injuries. However, neither player is expected to be ready for selection this weekend.

They will join Marcus Edwards, who remains sidelined with back spasms.

It also remains unclear whether Zian Flemming will be fit enough to feature a potential major blow for the Clarets.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth’s injury list is significantly shorter.

The Cherries will likely be without:

• Ben Gannon-Doak

• Justin Kluivert

• Lewis Cook

• Julio Soler

The sides are set for an intriguing battle this Saturday afternoon.

But the key question remains:

Can Scott Parker give Burnley fans a final glimmer of hope in their fight for survival, or will Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth continue their push towards European football?