'An improbable bond formed from across the pond' - JJ Watt hails James Trafford & Burnley for 'unbelievable run' of clean sheets after NFL legend wins Cincinnati Bengals retirement bet

The NFL icon, who is a minority investor of the club, had jokingly placed a bet with Trafford that if Burnley managed to keep their clean sheet streak going for the rest of the season, he would come out of retirement and suit up for the Cincinnati Bengals. For months, Burnley’s defence held firm, with Trafford putting in one impressive performance after another. However, their run of 12 consecutive shutouts finally came to an end on Tuesday night when they faced Cardiff City in a Championship showdown.

Heading into their clash with Cardiff, Burnley had not conceded a single goal in the Championship since December 21, when they secured a 2-1 victory over Watford. Although they continued their winning form, securing a 2-1 victory courtesy of goals from Josh Brownhill and Maxim Esteve, Yousef Salech managed to find the net for the home side in the first half, bringing an end to Burnley’s stunning streak of consecutive clean sheets. While the goal meant that Watt was no longer at risk of making an NFL comeback, he remained highly impressed by Burnley’s defensive resilience.

After the match, Watt took to X (formerly Twitter) to reflect on Burnley’s outstanding run and the bond that had formed between Burnley fans and the Cincinnati Bengals community through his playful wager with Trafford.

He wrote: "Cincinnati, that was a fun ride. Hope you enjoyed getting to know a bit about Burnley & our squad.

"What an unbelievable run for Traff & the boys. An improbable bond formed from across the pond. Bengals fans are welcome on Turf Moor any time. As for me: A feast & a drink await."

Despite conceding against Cardiff, Burnley’s defensive numbers remain unmatched in the Championship. They have allowed just 10 goals in 35 matches, which is by far the best record in the league. Trafford, the team’s ever-present shot-stopper, has played in every game of the season, managing to keep 25 clean sheets - in what is a staggering achievement.

Burnley will now turn their focus to their upcoming Championship fixture as they prepare to host Luton Town on Saturday. With promotion aspirations still very much alive, Parker’s team will be aiming to continue their exceptional defensive displays and return to keeping clean sheets.