We are asking a lot of the players
Wolves are here today and that means a second visit for their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who is now in his third season with the Molineux club.
Nuno has been speaking about the current, post lockdown situation in the Premier League and of there being no fans, he said: “That is the one that has the biggest impact of all the things. The rules have changed; five subs, water breaks, but the more impacting issue, no doubt, is the absence of fans. It’s had an impact on everything. It’s had an impact on our life, which subsequently impacts directly on football.
“I would love it so much. It’s what I hope for, it’s what I want more; to compete again in front of the fans. It’s not only me, but I think everybody, especially the players. For them it’s basic that as soon as possible fans go back inside the stadium so they have this joy again.”
“All the games we’ve had against Burnley have been very tough and very demanding. They’re a very good team and Wednesday is going to be a tough challenge for us.”
Burnley go into the game behind Wolves and the talking point is still the injury list. Sean Dyche said: “We are stretched to the limit at the minute and we need a period for those players to get fit. We are maxing out and the players available have been absolutely amazing with their energy levels, but the end, when it comes, will be appropriate because we can’t keep getting the injuries we’ve had, which as affected us.
“Players like Jόhann have stayed resolute to the cause and it’s not easy. Niggly injuries are the worst because if you have a serious one you can get your head around it, focus on the end and work backwards form the outcome which is to get fit, of course. When you have the little ones and keep breaking down, they are the ones that are really hard, emotionally for players.
“Jόhann has had a pretty long run of that, but he is showing signs of being clear again now and we are trying to be a bit careful with him, along with Robbie and Chris. It is a risk and reward, when a player has been out so long through injury. At some point you have to test it and that’s by playing, but the idea that it’s likely to be a short closedown between the two seasons, means we have to be careful. We are trying to find the right amount of work and be delicate about it, so it is tricky.”
Looking forward to the game, he added: “I think they are a good side. They had a tough start to the season with the Europa league, but came out of it quicker than us. I like what they do and they have a good mix in the squad and a manager that doesn’t make too many changes. There are nothing but positives for me on what they achieve and the manner they go about it.
“They are still pushing, but coming off the back of the Liverpool game there is a good energy and a good feel about the group and we know we have to be ready again to get what we want. We are going about our business in the right manner. We generally do. We are asking a lot of the players. As we always say, the next game is the most important one. We’ve stuck to that for a long time. It has served us well and we will continue to do that.”
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