WINNING TIGHT GAMES

Two years ago that was a game that Burnley would probably have lost. In 2014/15 they won just four Premier League home games, this time around they have doubled that number with seven still to go.

There were seven home draws two years ago, as well as some frustrating defeats in tight games, against Palace, Swansea and Leicester for example.

This squad have learned from that experience to find themselves on the right side of the tight matches now, more often than not.

Just like the game against Middlesbrough on Boxing Day this felt like a game that could go either way, with the opposition perhaps edging it on territory.

But in both games the Clarets have held firm. They’ve defended well, focused on the clean sheet, and when the chance has come they’ve taken it.

FAITH

Joey Barton was keen to emphasise the ‘faith’ Burnley had shown in him after the game, and he was right to do so.

When news of his FA betting charge broke after a deal, in principle, had been agreed for his return in January, the club would have been well within their rights to walk away.

Was the hassle going to be worth it for a fringe player, nearly two years out of the Premier League, who could face a ban within a couple of months of signing?

Well, yes. That faith was well placed, and Barton is right to thank Sean Dyche for that.

We don’t know how the next couple of months will pan out for Barton, but he’s already proved to be worth it.

MIDFIELD

The make-up of the midfield is becoming a regular talking point, and it could be again for the next week.

The Clarets were short of options in wide areas but it was a surprise to see Steven Defour starting on the left. He turned in a solid shift out of position, but you could tell he wasn’t a natural there.

Jeff Hendrick’s performances of late should have established him as the first name in the centre of midfield, but Dean Marney was below par on Saturday and limped off. Could a place open alongside Hendrick for Defour or Barton?

That could well depend on the fitness of Scott Arfield and Johann Berg Gudmundsson, as it appears unlikely Michael Kightly will start a Premier League game for Burnley again.