Mike Jackson has reacted positively to Burnley F.C.’s 2–2 draw against Aston Villa at Turf Moor, praising his players for showing character and quality despite the club’s confirmed relegation from the Premier League.
Softfootball understands that Burnley entered the match following confirmation of relegation after a narrow 1–0 defeat to Manchester City, meaning the Clarets will return immediately to the Championship. Meanwhile, Aston Villa arrived as Europa League finalists still pushing for a strong finish in the league.
Speaking after the game as reported via their YouTube channel, Jackson admitted the performance was exactly what he wanted to see from his squad. He explained that the focus before kickoff was to allow players to demonstrate their abilities and prove what they could contribute at Premier League level.
The Burnley boss described the contest as a very good game and praised Villa’s overall quality, acknowledging the challenge his side faced against one of the strongest teams in the division this season:
Yeah, it was exactly what we wanted to see. We spoke about it before the game and I have Said in previous interview just now, it’s we just wanted to see the players have a go. Show what they are capable of. We have not shown that enough of this season, let’s be honest, but today they’ve gone out and they have competed. They put themselves in there against a very good villa villa side and they have had some really good chances as well. I think it was a good game to watch for hopefully for the fans.
Jackson also addressed the six changes he made to the lineup, insisting the decision was about giving opportunities to players who had not featured regularly. According to him, the final weeks of the season are important for evaluating the wider squad and allowing individuals to show their identity and qualities on the pitch.
That’s no disrespect to the rest of the squad. I think that what we’ve got to try and do is give those boys who haven’t been playing as regular. Give them an opportunity as well at this time of the season and give them opportunity to go. This is me, this is what I am about.
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He stressed that the changes should not be viewed as disrespect toward other members of the squad, but rather as a chance for more players to prove themselves in competitive matches.
Looking ahead, Jackson expressed confidence in his group and maintained belief in what the team can achieve in the remaining fixtures despite the disappointment of relegation.
