SEAN Dyche says he has no problem with those who still regard Burnley as underdogs, because the doubters help to pull the team together.

The Clarets returned to the top of the Championship in time for Christmas thanks to Saturday’s 2-1 win over Blackpool, becoming the only side to boast an unbeaten home record in the division after Leicester City beat QPR at Loftus Road.

Burnley, who have not lost a league game at Turf Moor in 10 months, have been leaders for 10 out of the last 12 weeks, yet are still perceived as title underdogs.

But Dyche insists his side will continue to strive to defy the tag.

“I think there’s a reality to being an underdog and that is we haven’t got the resources and the squad size,” said the Clarets boss.

“I always say they’re not excuses. They would be deemed it if we weren’t doing as well but it’s fact.

“The fact is we have got those challenges so that probably still keeps us as sligthly underdogs.

“But it keeps the group tight, it keeps the belief in the group and the energy in the group, the organisation, that’s what helps you.

“I’m not too worried about it, I don’t overthink it.”

Consistency in performance and selection has been another key factor in Burnley’s success story in the first half of the season.

Eighteen players have started league games for the Clarets this season, with six players starting 20 games or more.

Dyche is set to name an unchanged side for the third game in a row for the Boxing Day bout at Middlesbrough.