Sean Dyche believes midfielder Steven Defour’s quality will be crucial to Burnley’s chances of survival.
The Belgian arrived at Turf Moor from Anderlecht in the summer and has already had a huge influence on the side.
He was at his best again on Monday, setting up goals for Jeff Hendrick and Michael Keane as the Clarets claimed a 2-0 win over Watford to rise to 13th in the table.
Without suspended striker Andre Gray, questions were raised before the game about who would supply the necessary inspiration to help the Lancashire club find the back of the net, but the former Porto man provided all the answers in his man-of-the-match performance.
Burnley remain the joint 1.67 favourites to be relegated but their boss believes with the quality of someone like Defour around, they have every chance of beating the drop.
Dyche admits the 28-year-old’s composure is helping the rest of the squad and feels the midfielder’s assuredness could prove crucial as they look to avoid relegation.
“He adds, for sure,” he told Sky Sports. “We worked very hard on that deal, we felt he would add some quality, he has a great manner to him, he wants to develop with the team, and he definitely adds something to the performances.
“And I think that rubs off on others, sometimes you get that person in who just has that bit of calmness and an assured manner in possession, and that rubs off on others and adds to the belief of the group.”
Next up for Burnley is Arsenal at home on Sunday, a clash they are 8.50 to win, with the draw 5.00 and the Gunners the 1.36 favourites.
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