Burnley defender Max Alleyne has admitted the players must take accountability for the team's poor defensive start to the Championship season. The Clarets have taken just one point from their opening three games, conceding nine goals to sit 23rd in the table with a goal difference of minus five. This leaves them nine points behind early leaders Swansea City.
Alleyne, the 21-year-old on loan from Manchester City, spoke ahead of tonight's crucial match against Middlesbrough at Turf Moor. He said the squad needs to show a reaction to Saturday's 4-1 defeat at Norwich City. The report was published by the Burnley Express.
What did Max Alleyne say about Burnley's defence?
Max Alleyne did not shy away from the team's problems. "Sometimes as players, we have to take accountability," he stated. "As a back unit, we haven't been good enough." His comments come after a dismal performance at Carrow Road where Burnley found themselves two goals down after just five minutes and three behind with only 21 minutes on the clock. The search for a long-overdue victory is urgent, as the club's last win in 90 minutes came back in February and their most recent home league win was in October 2025.
Where do Burnley stand in the Championship?
The current league position is a major concern. With a record of zero wins, one draw, and two losses from three matches, Burnley are second from bottom. Their recent form reads LLD. They have scored four goals but conceded nine, giving them that damaging negative goal difference. You can track their progress on our standings page. The immediate task is to climb away from the relegation zone, starting with the visit of Nicky Hayen's Middlesbrough side.
What is the immediate fixture schedule?
Tonight's game at Turf Moor is a chance for a swift response. After that, the focus shifts to Saturday's home fixture against Bristol City, who are currently fifth in the table. That match is scheduled for September 5th. A positive result against Middlesbrough would provide vital momentum ahead of that tough test. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures page.
How can Burnley turn their form around?
Alleyne pointed to the required attitude. "I think the main thing we need to show is that fight, that desire and I think the supporters deserve that," he said. Turning around a run of form this poor requires a collective effort, starting with a solid defensive performance. The team must rediscover the resilience that has been missing since the early stages of the campaign. Checking the latest player availability on our injuries page will also be important for the manager's plans.
The club's next opportunity to end their winless run comes at home to Bristol City on Saturday, September 5th.
