For decades, the 'big man up top' has been a Premier League staple. Classically associated with the likes of Sam Allardyce, in recent years, Sean Dyche has made it his own, and Chris Wood was his partner in crime.
Burnley's tactic is simple. Their midfield is not the most technically secure and has a limited range of passing, so to avoid losing possession and inviting pressure on themselves, they often kick it long to their 'big man' up top, who then can bring the ball down or head it on to one of the team's wingers or his striking partner.
So vital is this tactic that when Newcastle United signed Wood, Burnley instantly moved to replace him with 6'6 Wout Weghorst, who will be a challenge for any defence he comes up against.
