Champions’ records hunt clouded by Dyche’

extend a raft of contracts to help him cope with the demands of Project Restart. If their fractured relationship can be repaired remains to be seen.

Jay Rodriguez’s strike to level Andy Robertson’s first-half opener has certainly added more power to Dyche’s cause.

Burnley could have even won it in the end – but Johann Gudmundsson’s 87th-minute shot hit the bar.

That would have been cruel on the champions. Liverpool should have racked up a 25th consecutive home win at a canter. They should still be on course to become the first top-flight club since Sunderland 121 years ago to have a perfect season on home soil. That those achievements are now beyond Klopp’s side is down to the sheer bloodyminded spirit that Dyche (left) has fostered in his squad. Burnley were missing Jack Cork, Ashley Barnes, Matt Lowton and skipper Ben Mee through injury. Erik Pieters, a left-back, played on the right side of midfield. Back in

March 1974, it was defender Ian Brennan’s goal that beat Bill Shankley’s side. This time it was keeper Nick Pope who was the hero as the Clarets ended a run of 12 defeats at Anfield.

The Kop is famous for paying tribute to opposition keepers – and it was a shame that lockdown denied the 28-year-old a standing ovation for a performance that will enhance his chances of becoming England’s undisputed No.1.

Pope started and finished the first half by producing saves that seemed to th M t

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