U21S PREVIEW: BURNLEY V BIRMINGHAM CITY

Clarets return to league action

On Friday afternoon, Burnley U21s host Birmingham City in the Professional Development League at the FA County Ground in Leyland.

The Clarets’ last league action ended in a draw against Wigan Athletic, with the Latics’ Chris Sze finding a late equaliser on the counter-attack after Joe Westley had opened the scoring.

Andy Farrell’s team were 4-1 victors over Everton in the quarter-finals of the Lancashire FA Senior Cup last week, with Mikey O’Neill and Lewis Richardson both netting twice to set up a semi-final clash with Accrington Stanley.

Birmingham City currently top the table with eleven wins, two losses, and five draws.

The Blues secured an impressive 5-0 victory over Wigan In their most recent league encounter, featuring goals from Rico Patterson and Tommy Fogarty.

In the reverse fixture earlier this season, these two teams played to a 2-2 draw at the Wast Hills Training Ground. The home side took the lead in the first half with a goal from Sahid Kamara, but Burnley’s Joe Ashton quickly levelled the score early in the second half.

An own goal from Laiith Fairnie then put the young Clarets in front, before Blues substitute Pharrell Williams restored parity late on.

Supporters can attend the game in Leyland (PR25 2LF), with kick-off scheduled for 1pm. Burnley season tickets holders can claim entry for free, with adults priced at £5 and concessions £2.

Alternatively, live updates will be provided on Twitter via @ClaretsAcademy, and a match report will be available on Burnleyfootballclub.com.