Parker's Clarets keep things tight in campaign for Premier League return

Today at 07:29 AM

Longstanding defending records are under threat, with Burnley having conceded just nine league goals in 26 games

"Attack wins you games, defence wins you titles," was the old Sir Alex Ferguson adage but Burnley would happily accept automatic promotion. They sit second in the Championship thanks to the excellence of their back four and goalkeeper, who are on their way to break records, but a Premier League return is all Turf Moor wants.

Under Scott Parker, the Clarets have conceded nine goals in 26 league matches, collecting 17 clean sheets. Sunderland, one of two teams to have beaten Burnley, arrive on Friday night wondering how to break through the brick wall again.