Burnley manager Scott Parker explains absence of South Africa forward Lyle Foster in Arsenal defeat

Burnley manager Scott Parker has revealed the reason behind Lyle Foster’s absence in their Premier League home defeat to Arsenal.

The South African international missed the much-anticipated clash as his outfit fell to the Gunners on Saturday afternoon.

Foster was expected to play a vital role for Burnley, having masterminded their 3-2 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

“He was sick. He reported sickness yesterday [Friday] and went home yesterday, so he didn’t make it today.” Parker told Burnley Express.

Burnley faces West ham United in the upcoming weekend and it is unknown whether Foster will be available for the clash.

The sudden unavailability of Foster would be a concern for Bafana coach Hugo Broos who included the former Orlando Pirates player in his preliminary squad last week.

The squad will be trimmed this week to 23 players ahead of the friendly international against Zambia at home next week.

This friendly match will be Bafana’s last match before the Afcon tournament in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026