SA Star Returns From WC Break Amid Uncertai…

Bafana World Cup Star Returns To Pre-Season Training. Photo: Gallo Images

South African striker Lyle Foster has returned to pre-season training following his extended break after the FIFA World Cup.

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Foster made a late return to Burnley’s pre-season preparations after he served the mandatory 21-day rest period following South Africa’s World Cup campaign.

The South African would have been a welcome sight for new Burnley manager Nicky Hayen, who took charge of the Clarets following Scott Parker’s dismissal at the end of last season following their relegation from the Premier League.

Burnley Denied First Win  

Burnley and Spanish LALIGA side Espanyol played to a 2-2 draw, with several first-team players returning alongside Foster.

Foster joined Dutch striker Zian Flemming and new signing Ugo Raghbouber in returning to the team for the game against Espanyol, having missed the game against Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam.

The Spanish side took the lead early, but goals from Andreas Hountondji and Aaron Ramsey gave Burnley the lead before Espanyol levelled late in the second half, ensuring a share of the spoils.

Foster’s Impact Limited

Raghbouber and Flemming were in the starting lineup alongside the likes of Kyle Walker and Marcus Edwards, with Foster introduced as a second-half substitute.

It gave the 25-year-old his first chance to work with Hayen and stake a claim to stay in the team for the upcoming season, as Burnley look to mount another promotion charge and return to the Premier League.

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Burnley now return for one more friendly, also at Turf Moor, against Italian opposition Torino on Sunday before the competitive action gets underway with a Carabao Cup first-round tie against Notts County.

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