Stephen Ward: 'Blow if Burnley lose Sean Dyche'

Burnley defender Stephen Ward has admitted that it would be "a blow" for the club if they lose manager Sean Dyche to Everton.

The Clarets boss has emerged as the top target for the Toffees in recent days as they search for a replacement for the sacked Ronald Koeman.

Some reports have suggested that Everton could make an official approach for Dyche, who has been at Turf Moor for five years, in the next 24 hours.

During his tenure, Dyche has guided Burnley to the Premier League twice and kept them in the division last season with a record that saw them collect 33 points at home.

"It'd be a blow to lose him," Ward told The Times. "It's down to the club and the manager himself. If he stays, it'll be great for us.

"He's obviously got ambition but we're happy he's here. Hopefully he will stay here for this season anyway."

Burnley moved up to seventh in the Premier League last night courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United.