SEAN Dyche believes Burnley's start to life on the road in the Premier League this season has caught everyone by surprise.

But the Clarets chief insists has players have taken a step forward mentally in adapting to the top flight away from home, and that is a key component of their success so far.

Sunday's win at Goodison Park made it eight points from four away games this season with the Clarets unbeaten at Chelsea, Tottenham, Liverpool and Everton.

That has turned what Dyche described as a 'solid start' after the draw with Huddersfield a week earlier into a very good one, with Burnley sitting sixth in the Premier League during the latest international break.

"Certainly the wins make a difference, wins in the Premier League are massive - points are, but definitely wins," Turf boss Dyche said.

"Away from home, to have the start we’ve had, I don’t think anyone could have seen that. Really tough games on paper, and when you play them.

"But the players are shifting mentally, and I think that’s a really big thing."

Burnley won just once on their travels last term, at Crystal Palace, but they have quickly put to rest any fears of a repeat.

And Dyche thinks they have adapted to travelling in the Premier League and being able to play with confidence on the road.

"I said to them after the game, it’s amazing how tiny it is, but when you have that bit more assuredness to come to these grounds and play, deal with the crowds and the noise around the game and focus on what you’ve got to do," he said.

“I think we’re still improving, but there are signs we are."