KOMPANY HIGHLIGHTS ‘IMPROVEMENTS MADE’ AHEAD OF LUTON CLASH

Clarets boss previews Friday night’s clash with the Hatters

Manager Vincent Kompany believes both the Clarets & Luton have made strong improvements since the last time the two sides met in October and that the teams have similarities.

Burnley sealed their first win of the campaign against the Hatters at Kenilworth Road and both sides have since gone on to pick up the points as Rob Edwards’ team prepare for a trip to Turf Moor this weekend.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Kompany insists both teams will be feeling ‘confident’ heading into Friday and discussed the ‘same pressure’ that both sides face this season compared to last year.

The Clarets boss said: “I think we’re past the point where we can’t deny the fact that we have to say every game is an opportunity to get a result.

“Our belief remains the same and that’s to get a result against Luton. It was the same against Villa, Liverpool and the other games, it’s down to us to make it happen.

“I think both teams will be feeling confident in terms of how recent performances have gone for both of us and you can see the improvements made.

“The biggest similarities are that we can say at the very start of the campaign the gap between us and most of the teams we were facing.

“For our last 12 games or so, you can now see that there hasn’t been that real gap in games and we’re competing more. Same goes for Luton, I can’t remember watching a game where they haven’t made a proper game of it.”

Kompany added: “Last year we were in a different scenario, up against each other trying to get promoted to the most rewarding and expensive league in the world.

“This time it’s a different challenge, we’re trying to stay in this league this time it’s the same pressure overall. We’re now both trying to turn those good performances into results.”

When questioned on how the season has gone for Kompany himself, the Burnley chief said: “It’s the most wonderful job in the world, where you’re constantly getting challenges and you look for ways to better yourself.

“I feel very privileged in this role and I’m always willing to go above and beyond show that.”

Friday’s fixture was originally due to take place on Monday night, but due to the Hatters’ draw with Bolton in the Emirates FA Cup third round, the game was moved and Kompany says his team’s preparations were not affected by the amendment.

“We have had enough time to prepare for the game. It hasn’t affected that side of things, we would be ready to play whether it’s 6am or midnight, but I understand for the fans.

“Hopefully there is some entertainment for the supporters.