Marney still setting the bar high - Dyche

Of the culture set by manager Sean Dyche upon his arrival at Burnley four years ago, he admits midfielder Dean Marney set the bar in terms of the fitness levels required.
Dean MarneyDean Marney
Dean Marney

He described Marney as a "machine" as the Clarets roared to promotion in 2014, and, six years after signing from Hull City, he remains an integral part of the side.Marney - the longest-serving player at the club - has started every Premier League game so far this season, and, ahead of the visit of Crystal Palace on Saturday, Dyche said: “It says a lot about his demands on himself to keep going and stay with the challenges of the group and the challenge of what's in front of you.“I think he did (set the bar), but the difference is everybody moves forward."He laid down a real marker, him, big Jason Shackell, Ingsy, Tripps..they were laying down big markers, 'this is the way forward' type thinking, guided by me and my staff.“I think that's been supported from then on, and a number of people have risen to that challenge. "We look to add in technical demands and tactical understanding but it's a good base to work from when your players are fit."Last time out in the Premier League, Marney's cruciate knee ligament injury, suffered in early February, was a huge blow, and, asked whether his game has changed now he is fully fit and a regular in the side again, Dyche added: “His performances have been good enough, and don't forget we've gone up a level."Last year he was still having a few ups and downs with injuries and other things.“It can happen. Players have differences in their body, their alignment, when they come back and often have second or third injuries. I think so far he's delivered well physically and done the things you need to do as a midfield player – whether that's playing with the ball and going to get the ball or staying with your shape and defending like last week."