Burnley FC: Three hopes, one fear

Hope #2: That Andre Gray can make the jump to the Premier League.

Another Burnley striker with something to prove is Andre Gray. Gray led the Football League last season with 23 goals, playing a very pivotal role in getting Burnley back into the Premier League.

The 25-year old from Wolverhampton really came out of nowhere, having spent his professional career with clubs like Shrewsbury Town, Brentford, Luton Town, Hinckley Town, and AFC Telford United. Gray really has worked his way up through the lower levels of football and seems ready to make an impact in the Premier League.

So far so good for Gray. In just his second Premier League match against Liverpool Gray notched home Burnley’s second goal to pull off the upset. The goal itself perfectly showcases Gray’s skills as a striker. In the lead up to the goal you can see Gray finding space against the defenders which will later come in handy. Once he gets the ball the space he created is enough to get away from Liverpool’s back-line and hit a good shot from distance.

The acquisition of Steven Defour from Anderlecht should help in Gray and Vokes adjusting to the Premier League. Defour is very much an attacking midfielder and has very little trouble conceding opportunities to his teammates. Growing up and playing in the Belgian league gives him a great understanding as to how to press defenses from the center of the pitch.

For a side to stay up in the Premier League they need to be able to score goals. If Defour can continue to set up Vokes and Gray then Burnley should be fine.

Next: Hope #3: That Tom Heaton is one of the top English goalkeepers.