Clarets Look to Maintain Momentum Against Troubled Wolves

Burnley aims to build on their recent positive performance as they face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Turf Moor on Friday night, seeking to stretch their unbeaten Championship streak to four matches. Under Nicky Hayen’s leadership, the Clarets have demonstrated improvement after a challenging start, accumulating five points from their last three league encounters.

In contrast, Wolves have faced difficulties in maintaining form, suffering two consecutive losses that have put pressure on their standing within the Championship’s top 10.

Before the international break, Burnley was winless in the league, which cast doubt on Hayen’s future. Nevertheless, the decision to keep him at the helm appears to be paying off, as the team is gradually gaining momentum.

The Clarets managed a home draw against Derby County, which was succeeded by a resounding 4-0 victory over Watford at Vicarage Road. Following that, they drew 2-2 with Charlton Athletic, a result made frustrating due to conceding a last-minute equalizer. Defensive vulnerabilities continue to be a worry, with Burnley having let in 19 goals across 10 league matches.

A win on Friday could bring them within three points of the top 10, providing further evidence of their revival. Their home performances have been inconsistent, with four of five Championship encounters at Turf Moor ending in draws; their only home defeat came against Bristol City, who won 2-1.

Wolves, on the other hand, venture to Lancashire seeking to reverse their recent downturn. After an uplifting win against bitter rivals West Bromwich Albion, their spirits were dampened by losses to Middlesbrough and Bolton Wanderers.

Wolves have won only two of their last seven matches in all competitions and have netted just three goals in their previous five games, underlining their struggles in attack. Historically, the visitors have not fared well at Turf Moor, failing to secure victory in their last eight visits, although their recent draws (1-1) suggest another tightly contested match may be on the horizon.

Team News

Burnley may introduce changes in their attacking lineup as Hayen seeks to enhance their offensive threats. Marcus Edwards and Armando Broja are potential candidates to replace Largie Ramazani and Jamie Vardy in the starting eleven.

Dastan Satpayev, on loan from Chelsea, could rejoin the squad after missing Tuesday’s match due to a hamstring injury, with his parent club restricting his participation until he regained full fitness.

Hjalmar Ekdal is prepared to step in following a late injury to Anel Ahmedhodzic sustained against Charlton Athletic. The decision regarding a defensive replacement will depend on Ahmedhodzic’s fitness, while Kyle Walker could be considered for a centre-back position depending on the tactical setup.

Wolves’ manager Cesar Peixoto is also set to make multiple changes after the disappointing loss to Bolton. Tommy Doyle and Marshall Munetsi may be introduced in the midfield, while Andre could be rested in light of his recent performance.

In defense, Toti Gomes could take the place of Ladislav Krejci as Peixoto looks for more stability. Newcastle United loanee Sean Neave is a player to watch, potentially in line for his first Championship start ahead of Armstrong. Furthermore, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s first full 90 minutes this season could impact the selection of Fer Lopez on the right side.

Wolves will likely remain without Yerson Mosquera, Rodrigo Gomes, and Raul Jimenez, whose continued absence may constrain Peixoto’s options as he seeks to turn the team’s fortunes around.

Possible Lineups

Burnley possible starting lineup:

Coudet; Walker, Ekdal, Julio, Pires; Alleyen, Hatate; Edwards, Laurent, Bruun Laursen; Broja

Wolverhampton Wanderers possible starting lineup:

Sa; Trippier, Djiga, T Gomes, Konan; Doyle, Munetsi; Lopez, James, Mane; Neave

How to Watch

Match Prediction

Softfootball anticipates a scoreline of Burnley 2-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers. With confidence drawn from their recent unbeaten streak and the solid win against Watford, the Clarets have the opportunity to capitalize on their home advantage, despite lingering concerns about their defensive capabilities.