Burnley would be wise to go back in for McArthur and Dawson

Their team were hardly disgraced in their 3-1 Premier League defeat to title favourites Chelsea but Burnley fans are all too aware of the need for reinforcements.

Despite the opening fixture essentially going to script there were some positives to take, including Scott Arfield affording the hosts a surprise early lead.

However, if the Clarets are to survive their first season back in the top-flight since 2008-09 then manager Sean Dyche will have to bring in new bodies.

And having been frustrated in his efforts to land a number of top targets so far the former Watford boss knows his club have got to start taking care of business.

That may mean having to speculate just a little more in order to accumulate points this term with bids for both Wigan’s James McArthur and West Bromwich Albion’s Craig Dawson recently turned down.

Dyche told Sky Sports: “We want to find a balanced group in Burnley’s world, both financially and what we think is right for the group and how we operate. I think we’ve done that so far and we are looking to add further.”

McArthur could well be one of those additions, if the Lancashire club can up their initial bid of £4m.

The Scottish midfielder has been in impressive form in the Championship for Wigan, scoring in his side’s 2-2 opening draw with Reading.

Meanwhile, former England under-21 international Dawson is believed to favour a move with his West Brom future in doubt following the Baggies’ signing of defender Joleon Lescott.

With playing time likely to be limited at the Hawthorns the Clarets may be able to prise the former Rochdale centre-back away from the Black Country.

Next up for Burnley is a tricky trip to face Garry Monk’s resurgent Swansea outfit.

The visitors are priced at 4/1 for victory, with the draw 13/5 and the Welsh side the 7/10 favourites with Ladbrokes.  

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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