Burnley manager Scott Parker insists his side are working hard to neutralise Arsenal’s dangerous set-piece routines ahead of their Premier League clash at Turf Moor this weekend.
The Gunners currently sit four points clear at the top of the table, with much of their early success attributed to the work of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover. Eleven of Arsenal’s 16 league goals this season have come from dead-ball situations — a remarkable 69% strike rate from corners, free kicks and long throws.
Parker, whose team have found form with back-to-back wins against Leeds United and Wolves, acknowledged the scale of the challenge facing his players but believes his side are better equipped than earlier in the campaign.
“Of course we’ll work on that and try to limit their success. They’re good at them, but when I watch Arsenal, I see an unbelievably well-coached, fluid team. They don’t rely on set plays — they solve situations all over the pitch.” — Scott Parker, pre-match press conference
Arsenal’s Set-Piece Evolution Under Nicolas Jover
Set-pieces have long been one of Mikel Arteta’s hidden weapons, and this season has seen another leap forward. Arsenal lead the league for expected goals (xG) from corners and have scored in six consecutive matches via some form of dead-ball routine.
From William Saliba’s near-post flicks to Declan Rice’s back-post runs, Jover’s designs have transformed Arsenal into the most efficient set-piece outfit in the Premier League. Their delivery variety and timing often drag opponents out of shape — a particular worry for a Burnley side that has struggled defending second balls in recent matches.
Parker’s Defensive Focus
While Burnley’s recent upturn has come from improved pressing and faster transitions, Parker knows Arsenal will test their structure in different ways. Training sessions this week have reportedly emphasised zonal awareness and blocking patterns to counter Jover’s crowded penalty-area routines.
Parker also pointed out that the Gunners’ danger extends beyond corners and free kicks.
“This is a top, well-coached team,” he said. “Defensively, they’ve built a strong foundation, and it’s something we’ve tried to emulate from last year — a bedrock that gives you consistency.”
Form Table and Key Numbers
| Stat (2025/26) | Arsenal | Burnley |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | 1st | 15th |
| Goals Scored | 16 | 9 |
| Set-Piece Goals | 11 | 2 |
| Clean Sheets | 4 | 2 |
source: Premier League data – 30 October 2025
Those numbers show just how effective Arsenal have been from dead balls, while Burnley’s modest total highlights the difference in attacking output. Still, the Clarets’ defensive resilience has improved — conceding only twice in their last three outings.
Our View: Parker Playing the Long Game
In our view, Parker’s comments show a healthy balance between respect and realism. He’s not underestimating Arsenal, but he’s also ensuring his players don’t become fixated on one threat. Burnley’s recent shape in a compact 4-4-2 has allowed them to press more effectively without leaving gaps — something they’ll need to execute flawlessly against a team that thrives on positional rotations.
We think Burnley’s best chance lies in frustrating Arsenal early and limiting the number of corners they concede. The Turf Moor crowd will play its part, and Parker’s side must feed off that energy if they’re to cause an upset.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William notes:
“Arsenal’s set-piece numbers are elite, but Parker’s Burnley have started to look like a Premier League side again. Their improved organisation under pressure could make this a tighter game than people expect. Still, one lapse at a corner could undo all the good work.”
Key Insights
- Arsenal have scored 11 of 16 league goals from set-pieces this season.
- Burnley are preparing specific training drills to counter Nicolas Jover’s routines.
- Parker insists Arsenal’s threat goes beyond dead-ball situations.
- The Clarets have won their last two matches and sit five points above the drop.
- Arsenal remain unbeaten in nine and top the Premier League table.
What’s Next
Burnley host Arsenal at Turf Moor on 1 November 2025, with kick-off at 3pm. The Clarets then travel to West Ham before facing Chelsea in mid-November — a crucial run that could define their autumn.
👉 Burnley fans — can Parker’s men stand up to Arsenal’s aerial power this weekend?
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