DYCHE PRAYS FOR A BREAK

THEY say be careful what you wish for. That is certainly true for Burnley fans.

Qualifying for Europe for the first time in 51 years has come at a price, with Sean Dyche’s side remaining one place off bottom spot.

Burnley’s unsuccessful attempt to reach the group stage of the Europa League came at the expense of their domestic form, with Thursday’s exit to Olympiakos arguably a blessing in disguise.

For at least now the Clarets, who defied all expectations last season to finish seventh and take a brief sojourn into Europe, can focus on trying to secure their Premier League status.

After the defeat, Dyche (above) admitted: “We’re finding our feet a bit. These players had a lot of challenges.

“This was game 10 of the season for us. We’re a squad of roughly about 17 at any given time – we were down to 16 on Thursday – so that’s a lot of football for anyone in this early part of the season.

“We tried to remind the players of the positive side of it, playing in Europe for the first time but it’s still physically a task, and a lot of travelling.

“This two-week period gives us a chance to refresh ourselves.”

Seven of those who started against United also began the European tie in midweek and it showed, Dyche’s side looking jaded and leggy, with the visitors taking full advantage to earn a vital win.