The Premier League enters its 15th round of fixtures, and Tuesday night promises a tense showdown as Wolverhampton Wanderers host Burnley, a match with significant implications for the relegation battle.
Wolves currently sit 13th in the standings after 14 matches, with 15 points to their name. Gary O’Neil’s team has faced a tough run, losing three of their last four league games, including their most recent two encounters, with a 2-1 loss away to Arsenal being their latest setback.
In contrast, Burnley heads to Molineux with newfound confidence. The Clarets secured a resounding 5-0 victory against Sheffield United in the 14th round, marking only their second win of the season and ending a string of defeats.
Vincent Kompany’s Burnley finds itself in the 19th position, three points away from safety, having endured 11 losses this season. A win against Wolves would mark a significant step in the right direction.
Historically, Burnley holds the upper hand in head-to-head encounters with Wolves. They remain undefeated in their last six matches against the Old Gold, boasting three wins and three draws.
However, the Burnley squad under Kompany differs significantly from those in previous encounters.
The past three meetings between these sides concluded without either team finding the net.
Yet, Wolves’ recent Premier League matches have been characterized by high-scoring affairs, with over 2.5 goals scored in each of their last six fixtures.
Wolves’ home form has been solid, as they remain unbeaten in their last four matches at Molineux, recording two wins and two draws. However, they have conceded 12 goals while scoring 9 in six home matches.
Burnley, on the other hand, is on a three-game losing streak in Premier League away matches, with a goal difference of 5-12 against them in their last six road fixtures. Playing at Molineux is expected to be a tough challenge for Kompany’s team.
In terms of team news, Kompany might have to do without three key players. Jack Cork is uncertain to play due to fitness issues, while Arijanet Muric could miss out due to illness.
Lyle Foster, who shares the top goal-scorer position with Josh Brownhill (both have three goals), may also be absent due to illness. Brownhill notably scored in Burnley’s impressive 5-0 win over Sheffield United.
Wolves’ winger Pedro Neto is unlikely to feature due to a thigh injury, and Rayan Ait Nouri is doubtful with an ankle injury. However, Mario Lemina and Joao Gomes should return to the team after serving suspensions in their last match against Arsenal.
This midweek clash is a crucial relegation six-pointer, and a victory for either side would provide a significant boost to their hopes of survival.
While Burnley has enjoyed a six-game unbeaten run against Wolves historically, the question remains: Who will emerge victorious in this pivotal encounter?
