For 12 years, retired National Football League (NFL) star JJ Watt spent a lot of time hitting quarterbacks and tackling speedy, elusive running backs as a defensive end.
As the future Hall of Famer watched on from the Turf Moor directors’ box, he would have been glad he was not tasked with stopping Nathan Tella.
It may be different types of football, but the Southampton loanee was at his electric best as his two goals helped see off Wigan Athletic in a 3-0 victory and reinforced why Burnley should be looking to make him a permanent addition.
That view has been growing stronger among supporters. Tella followed his manager Vincent Kompany’s example with three fist pumps towards the Cricket Field Stand when leaving the pitch.
They responded: “Sign him up, sign him, sign him up.”
Watt, who is a soccer fan, and his wife Kealia, who is a player, most recently with the Chicago Red Stars in 2021, were departing from their seats as that happened, and he may have some influence in Burnley’s future, too.
The 33-year-old has spent the past few days getting a feel for the club, with speculation he may become a permanent part of it. Initial discussions over potential minority investment are thought to have taken place, according to a source close to the club, who has asked to remain…
