SEAN Dyche feels midfielder Jack Cork is relishing being the main man at Burnley after a summer switch from Swansea.

The 28-year-old midfielder was instrumental in the Clarets' 1-0 victory over Newcastle on Monday night which lifted Dyche's side to seventh on his fifth anniversary in charge.

Cork has been an ever-present in the division, having been brought to Turf Moor for a fee that could rise up to £10million, and has covered more ground than any other top-flight player across the ten games.

Having perhaps been overshadowed by others at previous clubs Southampton and Swansea, Dyche believes the ex-Chelsea trainee now has a platform to showcase his talent.

"I think he's enjoying his football, enjoying the group," said Dyche, who continues to be linked with the managerial vacancy at Everton.

"I liked him, obviously, before we bought him but his game knowledge and his understanding of the Premier League probably shines more with us because he's a main player and looks like a main player.

"He looks like he has an importance level and handles that really well. He's adapted into the group almost seamlessly. I thought he was terrific again."

Alongside Cork, Belgian midfielder Steven Defour has been reborn after a largely disappointing first season in England.

His international manager Roberto Martinez was in attendance at Turf Moor to witness a player he has not used in over a year, with Defour's evening ended by a groin strain that makes him a doubt for Burnley's final game before the international break against Southampton.

"He's got a tight groin and we managed to get him off pretty quick," said Dyche.

"We try and be as diligent with injuries as we can. We have ultimate trust in the players and if he's saying he's got a tight groin, then he has to come off. They know their bodies and we want that kind of professionalism.

"It's not easy for a player to do that but he's old enough and wise enough to know the difference. He's come off quickly and we hope that settles down. He's a good player."