THE simplicity of Burnley's defensive method is key to bringing the best out of those at the back, according to Sean Dyche.

The Turf Moor boss has gained a reputation for developing defenders under his guidance, while the goalkeeping department has also thrived at Burnley under Dyche and Billy Mercer.

James Tarkowski was forced to withdraw from the latest England squad with a groin injury but he's been a regular member of Gareth Southgate's squads since March, while Michael Keane also caught the eye during his time with the Clarets, winning two England caps before a £30million move to Everton.

Both Tarkowski and Keane were signed for less than £3million - from Brentford and Manchester United respectively - proving Dyche's eye for a defender and ability to improve those in the side.

Ben Mee has been another example of that defensive improvement under Dyche, even if England honours have never followed.

While Dyche believes plenty of players in all positions have improved at Burnley, he highlights the tactical understanding at the back as key.

"I think we work in a simple manner for the defenders, I trust them, we give them a good base to work from, a tactical understanding of what we do," he said.

"But the biggest credit I can ever give them is them. As coaches and myself as a manager you guide these people to where they should be going, the ones who really grip it and run with it are often the ones who have success, however you measure it.

"It’s not just defenders, there’s other players here who deserve a lot of credit for how they’ve developed.

"It’s not an exact science, you have to find those things that flick a switch inside of you to make you push and drive and continue improving.

"During my time here most players have continued to go upwards, some quicker and some on a slower upward curve."

Ben Gibson is the latest central defender looking to benefit from the midas touch and see his game improve while at Burnley.

The £15million summer signing has been in an England squad previously but is yet to win his first cap.

Dyche believes the improvement in goalkeepers and defenders at Turf Moor can only be a positive when looking to attract players in those positions.

"I’d imagine there’s an attraction from the outside looking in, if you’re looking at a department you’d look at centre halves and goalkeepers, in particular, here who look to have thrived," the Clarets chief said.

"I don’t think it’s just limited to that. I’d like to think there’s more to us than that but they’re two departments that have done well in my time here."