KOMPANY READY FOR NEWCASTLE TEST

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Clarets boss previews Saturday’s trip to St James’ Park

2023-09-28T17:01:07.052Z

KOMPANY READY FOR NEWCASTLE TEST

Clarets boss previews Saturday’s trip to St James’ Park

2023-09-28T17:01:07.052Z

MATCH PREVIEW: BRENTFORD V BURNLEY - Image 5

Manager Vincent Kompany described Saturday’s visit to Newcastle United as a ‘big test’ for his side but believes it’s a clash his side can look forward to in search of a first three points.

The Clarets take on the in-form Magpies at St James’ Park off the back of a midweek win against Manchester City and an 8-0 thrashing over Sheffield United last Sunday and Kompany is well aware of the danger the hosts will bring.

Speaking to the media on Thursday afternoon, Kompany highlighted the difficulty of playing at St James’ Park and the form of Eddie Howe’s men, but hopes his side can put in a strong performance and believes there is an ‘opportunity to do something special and be remembered for’ for his players.

Kompany said: “Newcastle is a big test if I’m honest. I’d always put it on the calendar as a big test.

“It’s difficult to predict because of the threats and the weapons they have, but there is something there for us in terms of having a good performance and hopefully a result as well.

MATCH PREVIEW: NEWCASTLE UNITED V BURNLEY - Image 5

“There are not many harder away grounds that are harder than that ground. I’m really interested in seeing where the team is against that level away from home.

“It’s something I’m looking forward to. If you play well at St James’, it’s not just about playing well, we want the result like every other game. It’s not arrogant to say that, why else are you in the Premier League?

“But a performance at St James’ Park should give you the feeling that you can perform everywhere in this league.”

“That’s what you’re in the game for. For every tough opponent, every team of that calibre, there is a small opportunity to do something special and that you’ll be remembered for."

Saturday's hosts Newcastle come into the game in fine form, off the back of three straight wins in all competitions and have a mouth-watering UEFA Champions League tie at home to Paris Saint Germain to look forward to on the following Wednesday.

KOMPANY READY FOR NEWCASTLE TEST - Image 2

Ahead of the clash, Kompany had high praise for United and the style of play Howe has implemented into his side but believes it's an exciting prospect for the Clarets to take on.

"There is a list of areas where they are strong, they’ve built the squad very well. The manager gets them to play in a way that makes them vulnerable to very few things.

“But there is no point turning up there if you don’t have an idea of what you want to do to give yourself a chance.

“Stepping into the Premier League, we knew we wouldn’t always be the favourites. In the PL it’s not something I’ve experienced yet and it’s certainly not the case for this game.

“I see so many opportunities. It’s a moment you can take and that’s something exciting for me. You go into the game looking for opportunities and not the consequences of the fact that they’re a very, very strong team.”