Václav Hladký

Key strength: Adaptability

Versatile player

In the trenches of a relegation battle, Burnley - sitting 19th in the table - have turned to experience to steady their ship. Enter Václav Hladký, the 35-year-old Czech shot-stopper who arrived on July 19, 2024 as a savvy summer acquisition. At just €200,000, he represents minimal financial risk with maximum veteran value. Standing at 1.92m, Hladký brings commanding aerial presence and 15+ years of professional wisdom to a young Clarets defense featuring the likes of Jordan Beyer and Hannes Delcroix. Though yet to make his debut (0 appearances), his role as a reliable backup and dressing room presence cannot be understated. In a squad fighting for Premier League survival, Hladký's experience navigating high-pressure moments could prove invaluable - whether between the posts or mentoring younger keepers. His contract runs until 2026, suggesting Burnley view him as part of their long-term stability plan, regardless of which division they find themselves in next season.