Despite a flurry of attacks from the Clarets in the first ten minutes after half-time, Nuno Espírito Santo’s side were resolute in defence and kept the opposition out.

This was the first clean sheet of the Portuguese boss’ tenure, and the first time the Hammers hadn’t conceded in a game since August’s 3–0 victory over Nottingham Forest – who, ironically, were managed by Nuno at the time.

Hammers debutant Axel Disasi impressed against a rather impotent Burnley side, as did his centre-back partner Konstantinos Mavropanos. However, the surprise inclusion in Nuno’s starting eleven on Saturday was the goalkeeper who kept the clean sheet: Mads Hermansen.

The Dane has struggled for game time since his move from Leicester in the summer. Saturday’s match was his first league game since September, and his first league start under Nuno.

Hermansen had a tricky start to his Hammers career, conceding 11 goals in his first four games for the Irons. He was hastily dropped for Alphonse Areola and has rarely featured since.

But on Saturday, Nuno made the brave decision to drop the French goalkeeper in favour of Hermansen, who impressed at Turf Moor. The 25-year-old displayed aspects of his game that Areola often lacks.

The Dane was purposeful in possession and commanded his area well, traits that have been lacking from Areola this campaign. He also produced a fine reaction save to deny Zian Flemming from close range – although he knew little about it.

Hermansen lacks Areola’s reach when shot-stopping, and he doesn’t share the Frenchman’s penchant for spectacular saves. This season, Areola has made stops that he simply had no right to make. However, it was refreshing to watch a goalkeeper who does the basics right.

Areola is undoubtedly a talented goalkeeper, but he is a very different type of player to Hermansen. The Frenchman has been more enigmatic in his performances, both single-handedly saving and costing his side at various points this season.

While it can be debated who is the “better” choice, Hermansen is certainly the more predictable performer – a goalkeeper who may not make big, game-changing saves, but one who can get the Irons on the front foot and help his centre-backs when the ball is in the air.

Of course, Hermansen has only played a handful of games, and Areola has faced stronger opposition than Saturday’s Burnley side. But there is something to be said for Hermansen having kept both of the Hammers’ clean sheets this season, despite playing considerably less than Areola.

If anything, it’s encouraging to know that the Hammers once again have two goalkeepers capable of providing genuine competition for the No.1 spot. However, if Hermansen continues between the sticks, his real test will come on Tuesday, when in-form Manchester United travel to East London.