Axel Tuanzebe

Tuanzebe (Achilles) is back available for Saturday's clash against Brighton after playing 120 minutes for DR Congo, according to coach Scott Parker. "It's an incredible achievement, I am really pleased for Axel after coming off the back of the injury to go and score the goal to send DR Congo to the World Cup. It can be a huge lift for him"

Analysis: Tuanzebe is available for Saturday's clash against Brighton after playing 120 minutes for DR Congo and scoring the decisive goal against Jamaica to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The center-back was a starter prior to his injury and is expected to reclaim that role in the coming matches.

Mar 13, 2026

Won't return before break

Tuanzebe (Achilles) is still not fully back on grass and won't be an option before the March international break, according to coach Scott Parker, per the Burnley Express. "Axel's still not on the grass or has been on the grass but only one day, so I can't see Axel being back until after the international break."

Analysis: Tuanzebe has logged only one day back on the grass since suffering his Achilles injury and will still need several weeks before he is ready to return. The defender is targeting a comeback after the March international break at the earliest, which is a tough blow for the Clarets given his status as a regular starter when fully fit. His absence forces a reshuffle in the back line, with Joe Worrall expected to take on a bigger role in the starting XI while he remains sidelined.