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‘It can happen’; Dyche pinpoints reason for Everton woes ahead of crunch Burnley clash

Sean Dyche Burnley 2022 TEAMtalk21

Burnley boss Sean Dyche believes the struggles of Everton this season prove just how tough it is to compete in the Premier League.

The Clarets and Toffees are both embroiled in a regelation battle. Burnley find themselves 19th in the standings, with 21 points from 28 games played. The Merseysiders are four points better off having played the same number of games.

They sit just one spot above the drop zone, with the clubs set to square off in a crucial game at Turf Moor on Wednesday evening.

It is not quite a ‘must win’ encounter for either side but Burnley’s predicament is worse than their opponents. It now looks to be a four-way battle to stay in the division.

Norwich seem doomed but it remains to be seen which teams occupy the other two relegation spots in mid May. It has been a dreadful season at Goodison Park in 2021-2022.

Rafa Benitez paid the price for a poor run of results, with Frank Lampard brought in to steady the ship. The former Chelsea chief has had little impact on results, with a 2-1 loss to West Ham last time out.

Frank Lampard managing Everton

Everton have been hammered in the media for their lacklustre displays. But Dyche took a different view on proceedings and feels it is an indication of the quality of the English top flight.

“It just goes to show you the strength of the Premier League when teams of even their strength, their financial strength and the feel of the club, the history of the club, if you like, are having a tough season,” he told reporters.

“It’s happened – I remember playing in an era when Manchester City dropped down two divisions. It can happen.”

Dyche admits money no guarantee of success

Everton’s woes can be traced back to the departure of Carlo Ancelotti as manager last summer. He spent just 18 months at the helm when club officials were hoping he would stay and attract big-name stars.

The Blues have been active in the transfer market and spent plenty of money to try and bring back the good times. And the Burnley manager believes the example of Everton proves that money will not always bring silverware.

“I suppose in a way the odd anomaly and marvel of football is that’s it’s not that easy. Everyone has challenging – or most have challenging seasons,” he added.

Rafa Benitez Everton 2022 TEAMtallk1

“But it just goes to show you how tough it is, a big club, lots of players there brought in for a lot of money, a well-thought-of manager – and managers previously – and still having a tough season.

“But that’s the power of the Premier League. I speak of it all the time. It’s a very, very tough division.”

READ MORE: Dyche admits Burnley failings in face of Man City quality but refuses to throw in towel