Scott Parker has hailed the impact of Martin Dubravka after the veteran goalkeeper produced a string of vital saves in Burnley’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest at Turf Moor. The 36-year-old, signed from Newcastle United in the summer, was a standout performer in a contest that swung back and forth, preventing Forest from stealing all three points late on.
Dubravka made seven saves in total, including an outstanding stop from a second-half header that Parker described as “unbelievable.” His presence and experience between the posts were key as Burnley dug in under late pressure from Forest, who introduced fresh attacking talent from the bench.
For Parker, the Slovakian’s display only reinforced what he already knew: Burnley have secured a goalkeeper capable of making the difference in tight Premier League games. With the Clarets fighting to establish themselves back in the top flight, Dubravka’s shot-stopping and leadership could prove invaluable over the course of the season.
The draw left Burnley reflecting on a missed opportunity after a sharp start to the second half, where they failed to convert key chances before Forest grew into the game. But Parker was keen to focus on the positives, including Dubravka’s commanding presence and the resilience shown by his side in the closing stages.
Scott Parker on Martin Dubravka’s Burnley impact
The Burnley manager made clear that Dubravka’s contribution has already justified the club’s decision to bring him in.
“He made some big saves and Martin’s going to need to be that this year for the team we are, playing against huge quality. I thought his save from the header was unbelievable really. He’s the last line of defence and he’s been pivotal. I’ve been immensely impressed with Martin. I probably knew what we were getting, but he’s pulled off some big moments and big saves in this team.” — Scott Parker
Parker also highlighted how Burnley “survived” late spells of pressure, crediting his players’ resilience in the face of Forest’s attacking changes.
Burnley’s balance between resilience and missed chances
While Parker was pleased with the point, he acknowledged that Burnley could have made more of their strong spell early in the second half. The Clarets pressed Forest hard after the break but lacked the finishing touch to double their lead. That failure ultimately allowed the visitors back into the game, setting up a nervy finish where Dubravka was called into action multiple times.
| Stat (vs Nottingham Forest) | Martin Dubravka |
|---|---|
| Saves made | 7 |
| Goals conceded | 1 |
| High claims | — |
| Distribution accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 21 September 2025
The stats emphasise how important Dubravka’s interventions were in securing Burnley a share of the points. Without his saves, the Clarets would almost certainly have left empty-handed.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Dubravka’s arrival has added much-needed experience to Burnley’s squad. “Dubravka has been there and done it in the Premier League. At 36, he brings composure and leadership to a Burnley side that is still learning under Parker. Performances like this will inspire confidence in a young backline, and his ability to produce big saves at key moments could be the difference between survival and relegation.”
He also stressed that Burnley must build on their resilience by becoming more clinical. “The problem isn’t just keeping the ball out of the net, it’s taking chances when they’re on top. If Burnley can marry Dubravka’s solidity with sharper finishing, they’ll have enough to stay up.”
Key insights
- Martin Dubravka made seven saves in Burnley’s 1-1 draw with Forest.
- Scott Parker says the 36-year-old goalkeeper has been “pivotal” since joining.
- A stunning save from a second-half header drew particular praise.
- Burnley showed resilience but failed to capitalise on strong second-half spells.
- Dubravka’s Premier League experience could prove vital in Burnley’s survival bid.
What’s next for Burnley?
Burnley now prepare for a daunting run of fixtures, with clashes against Manchester City and Aston Villa on the horizon. Dubravka is expected to be busy again, and Parker will be counting on his shot-stopper to maintain the same high standards.
In the longer term, the challenge for Burnley will be to combine their defensive resilience with greater attacking efficiency. If they can do that, Parker’s side may yet avoid the relegation scrap that many predicted. Dubravka, however, already looks like one of the smartest signings of the summer window.
👉 Is Martin Dubravka the key figure who can keep Burnley in the Premier League this season?
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