After disclosing his issues with mental health, Lyle Foster has demonstrated to Vincent Kompany that he belongs in the Premier League and has the potential to achieve great things.
The South African has shown promise in his four games back for Burnley since rejoining the team, despite missing over two months of action while receiving treatment.
Last Saturday, he had a remarkable performance against Aston Villa, netting a late equalizer before the hosts were given a contentious late penalty.
“What he’s for sure shown in the little time he’s played in the Premier League is that he’s made for this league,” said Boss Kompany of the 23-year-old, who joined the Clarets in January after playing for Westerlo in Belgium.
It can be challenging to determine a team’s standing in this league because, occasionally, we lose sight of how high the standard has been set by the Premier League. It has never been this high, I believe.
“I’m not sure whether anything other than playing and being happy is his top focus at the moment. With an eight-week plan in place, he is currently under constant observation.
“I believe you have to consider it somewhat as an injury. We’ve observed every encouraging sign we’d like to see. He’s performed admirably at everything he’s been asked to accomplish; all we need to do now is continue him down that route. He will eventually lead a regular life, which is of course the aim.
“He was talented earlier, but he was carrying a huge burden while playing. Considering what he’s shown us thus far and the process we’re going through, I doubt he’s even close to peak fitness.
“But the simple act of being free to play and not having to worry about anything is what has caused his performances to elevate to a new level. Hopefully, he’s headed in the direction of realizing his full potential.”
Despite their difficulties, Burnley managed to give Foster the time he needed off the field, and Kompany is proud of how they handled the situation.
“I think we’ve proven how we’ve reacted as a club,” he stated. “Our top player—our nine—was no longer with us.
“People should realize that this club is unique because we are completely together during times like this. Nobody remarked, “Be careful,” or “What are the implications?” because it might also have an impact on his value. However, nobody seems to mind.
“We acted morally toward the player and will act similarly toward each and every one of our players going forward. Even though the short-term effects are never harsher than for the player, we still have to deal with them occasionally, but in the long run, it will always benefit us.”
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