Vincent Kompany has refused to comment on Manuel Benson’s continuing absence from the pitch.
The 26-year-old was once again an unused substitute against Arsenal over the weekend, meaning he has not to play a game since mid-December.
After playing a key role in Burnley’s title victory last season, scoring 13 goals in all competitions, the winger has made only five appearances this season.
Only two have come from the start, and Benson has played only 100 minutes all season.
Fans have rightly expressed their concern about why Benson has been left out this season, especially given the team’s terrible performance.
When questioned why the Belgian hasn’t played, Kompany said little but said the winger hasn’t adjusted to the higher level.
“I’m trying not to focus too much on the individual aspect of things. “We really need to prioritize the collective,” he told BBC Radio Lancashire.
“There are many players who played last season. Everyone has got the opportunity to showcase themselves at this level.
“The truth is, it’s a level above any other league in the world, and some players adjust fast, while others take a little longer.
“I’m only focused on the collective, that’s the only thing we need right now.”
Benson was constantly connected with a January move away from Turf Moor, with Championship promotion-chasing Southampton among those who expressed a strong interest, but the deal never materialised.
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