NO REST FOR THE BEST OF THE REST

BURNLEY boss Sean Dyche hailed his players for their “remarkable achievement” in reaching Europe – and then warned them that pre-season training will start early.

Dyche (above) made it clear that he intends to take the Europa League seriously even though Burnley will enter the third qualifying round stage as early as late July.

“It’s a remarkable achievement. There’s a genuine gap to the top six so to be considered the best of the rest is a fine achievement,” Dyche said.

“No-one would have called that at the beginning of the season.

“We’ve gone from 40 points last season to 54 points, without getting a penalty, and now into European competition so that is a remarkable achievement.

“Pre-season has shifted closer to give us more time to make sure they’re fit and well but for now let’s enjoy the fact we’ve made it into Europe. There’s the kudos, then the finance, and the feel in the town. But our focus will still be on the Premier League.”

Dyche admitted that having little to play for yesterday was the reason behind their heaviest defeat of the season.

Dyche added: “They had something to play for – the legend that is Arsene Wenger.

“There was a big shift in the performance. They were clinical. Their passing and movement was good and when they do that they’re very good. They’ve done that to better teams than us. They can hurt teams.

“We’ve been exceptional so I’m not going to criticise anyone. But it’s difficult without the edge you need when there’s something on the game.”