EPL: Watford v Burnley preview

Watford v Burnley preview

Sean Dyche must decide whether to include the returning Tom Heaton in his matchday squad as Burnley travel to his former side Watford in the Premier League.

Heaton is fit to return to action after being sidelined since September with a dislocated shoulder, although Nick Pope is expected to stay as first choice in the short-term.

Dyche also has experienced stopper Anders Lindegaard - who signed a one-year contract extension on Thursday - and Adam Legzdins in his ranks, and welcomes the competition for the No 1 shirt.

 

"I don't think it is difficult to balance," said Dyche. "Tom knows the job, as does Anders and [Adam] Legzdins behind them. Goalies know the script.

 

"Whether you're first choice, second choice or fighting to get involved, that is just the lie of the land with goalkeepers.

 

"Pope is doing nicely, he's playing well and having a good season. Tom has been a fantastic servant over time and Anders and Legz are still looking to earn their spurs here."

Watford are currently in 11th place on 37 points - nine behind Burnley - and while manager Javi Gracia recognises the Clarets' good season, he is only focused on his own side.

 

"Burnley are having an amazing season, but I am only focused on trying to make sure they lose their next game," he said.

"I prefer to speak about my team. I see in this moment my players with ambition, they are very demanding of each other, and we will see where Watford finish at the end of the season.

"First of all we will try to reduce the distance between us this weekend. We will try to get three points and reduce the gap to six points. That is my objective in this moment."

 

Burnley could be without defender Ben Mee, who is struggling with a knock, while Johann Berg Gudmundsson (calf) will not be risked. Dyche also confirmed the Scott Arfield and Jonathan Walters (knee) remain unavailable.

Watford defender Christian Kabasele has returned to training after his hamstring problem and could be back in contention for the Premier League match.

 

Craig Cathcart made his return from a hip injury as a substitute against Bournemouth last weekend and should be involved again.

Gerard Deulofeu (foot) is stepping up his rehabilitation while Nathaniel Chalobah is working in the gym following a knee problem. Tom Cleverley (thigh) and Younes Kaboul (foot) are also continuing their recovery.