Burnley manager Sean Dyche has hailed the influence of Joey Barton after he scored in the club's 1-0 victory away to Preston North End.

Barton's deflected free kick proved decisive as the Clarets moved to the top of the Championship table, and Dyche has praised the impact that the midfielder has had since his arrival at the club last summer.

The 44-year-old told Sky Sports News: "He was excellent and he's been excellent all round.

"He's still delivering and has a real thirst to be successful and he continues to be that in among a group that's got that. He's been a good example of the whole group."

If Burnley win their final two league fixtures, Brighton & Hove Albion will be required to win their remaining three games to deny the North-West outfit a return to the top flight.