No Kane, no Alli, no problem. At least thats what Tottenham felt this month. Four consecutive victories, the latest being a dominant 3–0 home win against Dortmund in the Champions League, prove that theyre okay even without their England stars. Reducing the gap to Manchester City was Spurs main target coming to this match, as Pep Guardiolas men were busy with their Carabao Cup final against Chelsea.
Tottenham were the clear favourite in this encounter since they havent lost a match against any bottom-half sides this season. Compared to last season when Burnley finished seventh, todays Burnley are only able to sit just outside the relegation zone. Even so, they came into this match with plenty of pride after only losing one match in their last nine games since the end of last year.
Harry Kanes return to the lineup added more advantage to Mauricio Pochettinos squad. However, Burnley emerged victorious after Ashley Barnes close-range finish handed the Clarets a 2–1 win at Turf Moor. This piece will analyse how Burnley defeated Tottenham.
Lineups
Burnley opted for their usual 4–4–2. Tom Heaton started between the sticks ahead of Joe Hart. Dwight McNeil and Jeff Hendrick provided the width while Ashley Westwood and Jack Cork were tasked with controlling the midfield. Up front, Barnes stood alongside New Zealand international Chris Wood. Names like Johan Berg Gudmundsson and Robbie Brady had to start this game from the bench.
Pochettino opted for a back three in this match, relying on the trio of Juan Foyth, Toby Alderweireld and former Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen. Harry Winks was given his 10th consecutive Premier League start due to his impressive performances. Son Heung-min was Kanes attacking partner in the forward line. The bench was filled with the likes of Fernando Llorente, Erik Lamela, and Lucas Moura.
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