Maatsen fires Burnley to winning start under Kompany at Huddersfield

Vincent Kompany’s Burnley did not have it all their own way in their victory over Huddersfield but Ian Maatsen’s winner summed up the new-found dynamism to offer a glimpse of what is to come as the defender started and finished an eye-catching move to start the club’s new era with three points.

The Clarets completed more than 300 passes in the first half, they only achieved such a feat in 90 minutes twice in the entirety of last season to show the early impact of their new manager. No wonder Kompany said he was inspired by Pep Guardiola pre-match. The Manchester City boss will have enjoyed the winner, too, even if it did come from a Chelsea player who marauded into the area from left-back before picking out the bottom corner.

Burnley went with a revolutionary approach to their new era with six debutants in the starting lineup. Maatsen, a constant threat down the left, and Josh Cullen in midfield were the most impressive of the swathe of recruits from a whirlwind summer that has seen a revolving door transfer policy – and a few more comings and goings can be expected at Turf Moor before the window closes.

The heat of the battle seemed to get to Kompany early on; the Belgian felt the need to remove his suit jacket with less than four minutes on the clock. He will not be a tracksuit manner. He watched on while Burnley learned on the job about their new roles and system, but they soon found their feet, much to Kompany’s pleasure.

Cullen settled the quickest in a pivotal central midfield role, aiding those around him to get up to speed, helping Burnley control the game in the process. He was the man instigating everything positive thanks to his neat touches, passing and ability to read the game, showing why Kompany was so