BURNLEY boss Sean Dyche has backed Clarets youngster Dwight McNeil to be a Premier League star after the teenager's impressive showing in the defeat to Liverpool.

The Clarets were beaten 4-2 at Anfield to leave them just one place and two points above the drop zone.

But McNeil, starting for the 11th straight top flight game, was one of the brightest performers for the visitors.

And Dyche was impressed, believing the 19-year-old stands a chance of being called into Aidy Boothroyd's England Under-21 squad this week ahead of games against Poland and Germany later this month.

"I would think he's got to be considered," said the Clarets chief of his wideman's chances of earning an international call. "But I never question any managers choosing a team or squad, because it's difficult."

McNeil got the better of England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold time and again at Anfield on Sunday and his development has delighted Dyche.

"I thought he was winning the battle (with Alexander-Arnold), and he's a fantastic right back," said the Clarets boss.

"It was an absolute top-drawer performance from Dwight McNeil, that young man has got a massive chance of being a top, top player in my opinion.

"He continues to grow. Every time I wonder whether I should leave him out, I think 'no, keep the boy playing'.

"I think it's good for him, and us, but if he keeps his head down and keeps working like he is doing, he's got a massive future."

Dyche replaced McNeil at half time in the defeat at Newcastle United earlier this month but admitted after the game that he felt starting the youngster just four days after playing in the win over Tottenham, was an error on his part.

"He had one blip, which was probably my fault, I should have taken him out at Newcastle after the euphoria of beating Tottenham, but other than that, he's been outstanding," said Dyche.

"I thought Dwight was outstanding (at Liverpool), just his composure and belief in what he does.

"I could have taken him off, but I didn't want to, I was enjoying his performance that much, I thought 'keep playing son'.

"It is fantastic to see youngsters going and doing that."

McNeil has made 17 appearances for the Clarets this season, scoring once, having made his debut as a last minute sub in the defeat to Bournemouth on the final day of last season.

His impressive form this term earned him a contract extension earlier this year with the winger penning a four and a half year extension in January, keeping him at Turf Moor until the summer of 2023.