Liverpool great Michael Owen has warned that Fulham will struggle without Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze, who are heading to the Africa Cup of Nations with three -time champions Nigeria.

The trio played pivotal roles in Fulham's historic 3-2 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor, the Cottagers' first away win at the ground since 1951. 

Emile Smith Rowe opened the scoring in the ninth minute, only for Scott Parker's side to be pegged back by Lesley Ugochukwu's equaliser in the 21st minute. 

Calvin Bassey restored Fulham's lead with a header before the break, and Harry Wilson added a third in the 58th minute, assisted by Chukwueze. 

Oliver Sonne's late strike in the 86th minute proved only a consolation for the Clarets.

Iwobi has been ever-present for Fulham this season, starting all 16 Premier League matches, while centre-back Bassey has started 15. 

AC Milan loanee Chukwueze has also forced his way into the starting XI following a string of impressive substitute appearances.

The trio's absence will leave Fulham navigating a congested fixture list with fewer  options, a challenge Owen believes could impact their league campaign.

When asked to share his thoughts on Bassey signing off with a goal before heading to Afcon: Owen said on Premier League Productions, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com: "Absolutely. Three points and a bonus of scoring a goal, so he will be pleased

"It's really interesting. Some teams are going to struggle more than others, or be more depleted than others.

"Obviously, Fulham are losing three players; that's going to hit them hard, but there are worse-off teams in the league."

Should traditional favourites Nigeria qualify for the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, Iwobi, Chukwueze and Bassey will miss eight games for Fulham, including key clashes with Champions League teams Newcastle United, Liverpool and Chelsea. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel