Burnley manager Scott Parker addressed the media ahead of the Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Turf Moor on Wednesday evening, revealing that the squad is in good health with “no injury concerns” aside from long-term absentees, and that all available players are “fit and willing” to compete.
Following a disappointing 3-1 loss to Brentford over the weekend, Parker acknowledged that the mood within the club is less than ideal. He noted, “The way it happened against Brentford was disappointing… A lot of learning for us, for sure.” Emphasizing the importance of mental resilience, he expressed the need for steadiness in challenging scenarios.
Parker also commented on Zian Flemming’s adaptation to the Premier League, recognizing the player’s professionalism and hunger to succeed. He stated, “He goes about his work with a fearless mentality and a fearless attitude, and is embracing the challenge.” The manager is optimistic about Flemming’s contributions, which are proving beneficial for the squad.
When discussing the fine margins that have impacted his team’s performance, Parker reflected on the psychological aspects of coaching a young group. “The positives are we are competitive and have been in a lot of games,” he mentioned, acknowledging that some adjustments must be made to convert near misses into victories. He is keenly aware of the “gap” that exists in their performance and believes fostering an understanding of their achievements while being realistic about the challenges ahead is crucial.
Addressing the inevitability of facing adversity in football, Parker highlighted the significance of coping with disappointments. “We dust ourselves off and we go again,” he stated, emphasizing a focus on resilience and continuous improvement.
Looking ahead to the match against Crystal Palace, Parker characterized the opposition as a tough team that has been cohesive and well-coached under Oliver Glasner. He acknowledged their strengths while expressing confidence in his team to respond strongly in front of their home crowd.
As Burnley prepares for this important fixture, fans are encouraged to tune in to the live commentary of the game on BBC Radio Lancashire. The anticipation surrounding the match holds promise for both players and supporters alike, with hopes for a positive turnaround following the recent setback.