STEVE Stone is back in work after an independent investigation conducted by Burnley, following reports of bullying, concluded.

The Clarets' Under 23s boss has been absent from the club on an agreed break since late October.

Assistant Andy Farrell has been leading the side in Stone's absence and it is understood he will continue in this role in the short-term, while Stone is assessing the players he worked with at Burnley who are now out on loan.

Asked if there had been a resolution to the Stone situation, Burnley boss Sean Dyche said: 

"There was an independent investigation just to make sure things were done in the right manner. 

"He is back in the workplace. He is out looking at our loan players, because we have 11 out on loan, making sure they are in good shape with the delivery of their performances and speaking with the managers."

When asked if it was a relief that the matter had reached a conclusion, Dyche - a former clubmate of Stone at Nottingham Forest during the pair's playing days - added: "There is no relief, it is just another situation that has been cleared up and dealt with."

A club statement read: "The club conducted an independent investigation and that matter has now concluded."