Sat bottom of the Championship with two points in five games and fans becoming more and more restless, to say that Burnley need a lift would be an understatement. Jamie Vardy can provide that lift.
At 39-year-old, the former Leicester City star has returned to English football after a brief stint in Italy and is tasked with firing the Clarets back into form.
Many were awaiting Vardy’s decision over his future. It looked as though boyhood club Sheffield Wednesday or Everton could even snatch his signature, only for Burnley to shock everyone by swooping in.
“I’m really happy to now be here at Burnley FC. This club has a proper footballing history and passionate fans who deserve a team that represents them and their town. I can’t wait to get going on the pitch and help the team move in the right direction.”
Just how often Vardy features for Nicky Hayden’s side is now the big question. Even at 39, he could provide the spark that they’re desperately lacking – starting with Wrexham away on Wednesday evening.
There have been a lot of complaints from those at Turf Moor about Burnley’s summer business. Many have spoken out against Alan Pace’s ownership after such a disastrous start to the season. As far as he’s concerned, though, business is far from over.
After welcoming Vardy in unexpected fashion, Burnley are back in the free agent market and could welcome another former Premier League star in the form of Jordan Ayew.
Burnley working on Jordan Ayew hijack
As reported by Footy Africa and relayed by Sport Witness, Burnley are working on a move to sign Ayew ahead of Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers. Those at Ewood Park have already held talks with the experienced attacker, but are now facing a surprise hijack from their East Lancashire rivals.
Whilst Blackburn are still ahead thanks to their initial approach, Burnley are preparing to throw a spanner in the works. They may even be silent killers too, having snuck Vardy through the door amid competition from around English football and the rest of Europe.
In terms of suitability, no one can deny that Ayew has the experience. He’s played for Marseille, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, Swansea City and, most recently, Leicester City. This is someone who has starred at the top and endured life at the bottom of the Championship.
|
Jordan Ayew stats |
Games |
Goals |
Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Crystal Palace |
212 |
23 |
21 |
|
Marseille |
147 |
22 |
16 |
|
Ghana |
124 |
34 |
20 |
|
Leicester |
80 |
12 |
4 |
|
Swansea |
58 |
12 |
6 |
|
Aston Villa |
58 |
10 |
4 |
|
FC Lorient |
33 |
13 |
6 |
|
FC Sochaux |
18 |
5 |
1 |
|
Total |
608 |
97 |
58 |
The questions will surround his ability. At 34 years old, Ayew didn’t show signs of maintaining his highest level whilst at Leicester last season – scoring just six goals. If Burnley are to match their promotion ambitions, then they will need better from the forward.
What does help Ayew’s cause is the fact that he played with Vardy during his time at Leicester. This hands Burnley the chance to form a new-look attack which should need little time to adjust. And whilst sat bottom of the Championship, that would be crucial.
