Burnley manager Sean Dyche has praised new midfielder Steven Defour's 'strength of character' and believes the player's performances will help spur on his new teammates.
The Belgium international was subject to some intense criticism at his former club Anderlecht, due to him previously playing for their rivals Standard Liege. In a game between the two, Standard fans unfurled a banner depicting his severed head under the slogan 'Red or Dead'.
Scary.
However, Defour has been impressive since his £8m transfer to Turf Moor in August. His arrival, coupled with the signing of Jeff Hendrick - Burnley's record transfer - has led to the team switching to a three-man midfield, which has resulted in some good performances by Defour.
Since signing for the Clarets, Defour has been involved in four of the five goals Burnley have scored. He scored a superb solo goal against Hull City and set up three other goals, including both in the win over Watford. This has led to the player becoming a hit with the Burnley fans.
Proud aunty post ~ my nephew Alfie did a talk at school today about his first love... Football @BurnleyOfficial & @StevenDefour Super fan ⚽� pic.twitter.com/Plcx1cJcTo
He's a good technician; it's why we brought him here. He can deliver, pass and break up the play,� the Burnley boss explained.
He's got a calmness to him and that extra belief from playing for Belgium, playing in big games, under tough circumstances sometimes when he moved to Anderlecht from Liege.
It gives you a strength, and he's got a strength of character, and strength to have the ball, want it and receive it, and that rubs off on others.�
Dyche has suggested that he believes that Defour has added an extra dimension to his team
He's learning, he's adapting and he's getting used to the Premier League and the fitness levels required.
He's a good player, else we wouldn't have brought him here, maybe he'd been overlooked a bit. I knew a bit about him and my scouts went and watched him and we thought he can fit what we do but add more to what we do and that was the idea.
The Clarets chief is convincedthat the team has had a productive summer transfer window.
Jeff's another in, as is Johann (Berg Gudmundsson), they've all been brought in for a reason. We're not in a position to sign players, move them on and build a squad of 30, so every player we bring in is important.�