FOOTBALL EXTRA

SEAN DYCHE will today hold talks over winter recruitment with new Burnley chairman Alan Pace. Sportsmail understands Dyche is set to discuss plans on what can be achieved in the January window alongside technical director Mike Rigg. Pace, who finalised a takeover last week, revealed funds are available, though investment will be measured. ‘I don’t think Sean will be frustrated,’ the American said. ‘There is financial flexibility. I agree with Sean that the team could use some extra support. If someone gets injured, they need the resources to carry on. When the team are healthy, look at what they’re able to do.’ JACK GAUGHAN

▪ DERBY may learn today whether they will be able to field a team for Saturday’s FA Cup tie at Chorley. A spate of positive coronavirus tests forced the Championship club to shut their training ground and Wayne Rooney’s side are set to be tested today in accordance with FA protocol. But there are doubts about whether the third-round clash can go ahead due to this week’s outbreak. FA rules state that clubs will be expected to fulfil fixtures if they can muster 14 players, though there is scope for individual clubs to appeal if they feel they cannot do so. In theory, the FA could reject any case from Derby and effectively give Chorley a bye to the fourth round, but that appears unlikely at this stage. TOM COLLOMOSSE

▪ JAMES BEATTIE is among the candidates keen to take over at Fleetwood Town and wants to bring Dave Kitson as his assistant. Lancaster-born Beattie, 42, has worked in recent years as part of Garry Monk’s coaching staff at Sheffield Wednesday, Middlesbrough, Birmingham and Swansea. The former England striker feels the time is right to return to management, however, almost seven years after a 16-month spell in charge of Accrington Stanley. Joey Barton was dismissed by League One Fleetwood on Monday after more than two years at the helm. Beattie and Kitson both scored in the Premier League and were teammates at Stoke and Sheffield United. MATT BARLOW