Hjalmar Ekdal

Analysis: Ekdal is back in the starting XI for Saturday's clash against Brighton, marking his first EPL start for the Clarets since Jan. 3 when he also faced the Seagulls in Premier League action. The defender had recently slipped out of the lineup after previously locking down a regular role earlier in the season, having started 13 of his 15 appearances before losing his spot in recent months. Across that stretch, he still delivered solid defensive production with 19 tackles, nine interceptions and 96 clearances, showing the kind of reliability and physical presence that keeps him firmly in the mix when called upon.

Dec 3, 2025

Solid showing in defeat

Ekdal registered four tackles (three won), 12 clearances and one interception in Wednesday's 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace.

Analysis: After six games on the bench, Ekdal returned to the starting lineup in place of the reportedly injured Axel Tuanzebe. He put in a solid defensive performance despite the team's defeat, recording a season-high four tackles and 12 clearances.

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Hjalmar Ekdal

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