Burnley manager Scott Parker has confirmed a significant injury setback ahead of his team's vital Premier League fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion this Saturday.
Esteve's Setback Confirmed
Defender Maxime Esteve will not be available for the trip to the Amex Stadium, dealing a major blow to the Clarets' survival hopes. The 23-year-old centre-back, who has been a key figure this season, suffered a recurrence of a recent problem during the 3-1 defeat to Newcastle United on New Year's Eve.
Esteve had only just returned to the starting line-up after missing two games over Christmas, but was forced off after just 14 minutes against the Magpies. Speaking after that match, Parker admitted the club's assessment had been incorrect, stating: 'We felt that Maxi was alright and that wasn't proven the case.'
Parker's Cautious Approach
Addressing the media in his pre-match press conference on Friday, Parker provided a clear update. 'He won't make the weekend, he has done work on the grass today,' the Burnley boss said. 'It's too much to risk and with such a short turn around, we don't want to risk the early changes in the game.'
Parker emphasised the need for caution, adding that the focus is on a longer-term recovery. 'We are hoping for a speedy recovery, we will prepare now to get him in a good position.' There is a glimmer of hope for the following match, with the French defender potentially in contention for the home game against Manchester United on Wednesday, January 7th.
Injury Crisis Deepens for Struggling Clarets
Esteve's absence exacerbates a severe injury crisis at Turf Moor. Burnley currently have ten first-team players unavailable, a combination of injuries and departures for the Africa Cup of Nations. This leaves Parker's squad 'extremely stretched' as they battle to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
The Clarets are in desperate need of points, having not won a Premier League match since October. Their spirited but ultimately fruitless display against Newcastle left them six points adrift of safety, making every fixture critical.
In contrast, Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has received a boost with winger Yankuba Minteh in contention to feature after his own injury concerns. The Seagulls will look to capitalise on Burnley's depleted resources at the Amex.
