Clarets Euro booby prize
I’M struggling to think of a better advert for not qualifying for the Europa League than Burnley.
Last season they were flying in the Premier League and finished seventh, putting them back in Europe for the first time in 51 years.
This season, after six gruelling Europa qualifiers, they look disillusioned and knackered and in four league games have conceded nine goals. In their first 18 last term they let in only 12.
They are second from bottom and the feeling around the club is unless things pick up quickly for Sean Dyche and his men, they could be in a relegation fight.
It’s why many fans are relieved they’ve been knocked out of the Europa League and can hopefully get back to winning ways without the tortuous Thursdays.
But what does it say about UEFA’s secondary competition to clubs who don’t have the same squad depth as the top sides?
Possibly, that if you find yourself in a position to qualify for it next May, take your foot off the gas and swerve it like the plague.