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Sean Dyche says Joey Barton has the attributes to do well at Fleetwood

Joey Barton
Image: Joey Barton remains in contact with Sean Dyche, who described the former midfielder as a "student of the game"

Burnley manager Sean Dyche thinks Joey Barton deserves "massive credit" for taking the job of Fleetwood head coach.

Barton played for Dyche at Burnley and the Clarets boss says he saw the signs of a potential manager.

However, it was something of a surprise when League One Fleetwood announced that Barton will take charge on June 2 - when his suspension for breaching betting rules comes to an end.

But Dyche said: "I don't think it is a surprise so much to me.He is a strong professional, Joe.

Joey Barton
Image: Joey Barton remains in contact with Sean Dyche, who described the former midfielder as a "student of the game"

"I can only really speak about what he did here and how he adjusted to what we offer the players here.

"He was first class and I felt that there is a 'student of the game' - to coin a phrase! - in him.

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Burnley manager Sean Dyche says Arsene Wenger inspired him with his revolutionary methods.

"He does want to continue to learn and progress, despite what some people may think.

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"He has got an opinion for sure and he has got a strong opinion but I don't think he thinks he has got every answer.

Burnley boss Sean Dyche applauds on the sidelines
Image: Barton impressed Dyche during his spell at Burnley

"He is willing to listen, he takes advice. I speak to him semi-regularly and I have always got time for him. He wants to take your opinion and add to his own instinct for the game."

And Dyche thinks Barton will learn plenty about the managerial game in the competitive League One environment.

He added: "Obviously the proof will be in the pudding but massive credit in the sense that - I think Fleetwood are a very good club - but you could argue he could have waited, he could have tried to get in at a higher level.

"But he has accepted the challenge, he is willing to get his hands dirty and learn the game as a manager.

"I played in that division and it is not easy."

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