Burnley manager Scott Parker has fired a warning to Leeds United, Sheffield United and anyone else involved in the chase for the Premier League. Parker's Burnley side are currently third in the Championship table, but lie just two points off table-topping Leeds after winning four of their last five games and putting an unbeaten run that goes back to November.
The key for the Clarets in recent weeks is turning draws into victories as the side have combined their miserly defence with more goals, to make them a bigger threat with the ball and in turn they are now scoring the goals to settle tight games. Burnley have conceded only 11 goals this season, in what is an unbelievable defensive record.
Parker believes the key factor in recent weeks has been finding a balance which has allowed the team to stay compact and tough to score against, while also making them a little more open going forward. It's a combination that is making Burnley a real threat for automatic promotion with eight games of the season remaining.
"I definitely think we have (struck the right balance). I think numbers are suggesting that. Our attacking numbers are suggesting that," explained Parker.
“We are creating more chances, we're looking more dangerous. I thought the one positive from the other night (against West Brom) was our reaction from going a goal down.
“You know, the boy’s (John Swift) scored an incredible free-kick from 20 yards. You're thinking you're not going to be able to get this over and over the wall but he does. Our reaction from it was unbelievable. I thought we looked every bit of a good side, a top side that wanted to keep pushing. On that front, I think attacking-wise we're heading in the right direction.”
Burnley finding their attacking mojo will be a concern for Leeds and the Blades, who know they're likely going to have to find a new level of consistency if they are to hold onto their automatic promotion place.