If Shane Long wants regular Premier League football this season, he will probably have to move.
Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long played 19 times in all competitions for Southampton last season. In the Saints’ Premier League opener against Swansea, the Tipperary man warmed the bench, which may be an early sign of where he stands in the pecking order.
As it stands, Manolo Gabbiadini, Charlie Austin and Sam Gallagher are all vying for places up front in Mauricio Pellegrino’s side. So competition for those striker spots is really heating up.
While Long could stay put and prove he belongs in the Saints’ first team, another Premier League team who may offer him a fairer crack at the whip are reportedly sniffing about.
The former Tipperary minor ended up getting Richie Hogan to clean his boots https://t.co/b3LEGwuKUL
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) August 16, 2017
According to The Mirror, Burnley boss Sean Dyche is eyeing up a move to bring Long to the club.
With the Clarets looking likely to miss out on the signing of Austria Wien striker Olarenwaju Kayode, who appears to be going to Manchester City, Dyche has looked at bringing in Leeds United’s Chris Wood. However, Long would likely be a cheaper alternative to Kiwi sharpshooter who netted 27 Championship goals last campaign.
Aside from the prospect of first team football, the other incentive for Long would be joining up with a strong Irish contingent at Burnley. Compatriots Jonathan Walters, Robbie Brady, Jeff Hendrick and Kevin Long are already at the club.
