Premier League manager 'flattered' by speculation linking him to Newcastle United

The Premier League’s current longest-serving manager, 49, was touted as a possible replacement for Steve Bruce amid calls for him to be sacked.

Fan anger with Bruce peaked following the Magpies’ 3-0 defeat at Brighton and Hove Albion last month but Mike Ashley publicly backed his head coach.

That didn’t prevent rumours of other candidates taking over at St James’s Park – with former Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe and Dyche the two most frequently mentioned.

Dyche, who comes up against Bruce at Turf Moor on Sunday afternoon in a Premier League relegation ‘six-pointer’, has addressed those links.

He said: “I am Burnley manager, I am still here currently. I am always flattered by links from all clubs but particularly Premier League clubs, because that is one of the highest value league in the world, in terms of quality football.

“If you are linked to clubs like Newcastle, then very flattering. But I keep doing my job at Burnley.

“Turning huge potential into actual performances and wins are different things. It is not an easy task. If it was easy, clubs like Newcastle would be up there every season. They haven't been.

“They are a big club - doesn't give you a divine right to win games. It takes process and quality players, not just saying you are a big club.

“The difference between being one and delivering one, that is the biggest challenge. A real big challenge.”

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