Clarets stalwart Duff set for coaching role?

Boss Sean Dyche has spoken with the board regardinng a potential role for the 38-year-old, who is in his 12th season at the club, following a £30,000 switch from Cheltenham Town in the summer of 2004.

Duff, who was awarded a testimonial last season, culminating in a match against Bradford City in August, started the campaign at centre back alongside Michael Keane, but lost his place after the 3-0 defeat at Hull City on Boxing Day, with Ben Mee moving inside from left back.

The arrival of James Tarkowski on transfer deadline day has added to the competition for places in that area, and it remains to be seen whether Duff earns a new contract at the end of the season, especially if Burnley are promoted back to the Premier League.

Duff has long cited Graham Alexander, who played until he was 40, as a big influence, and he could wish to extend his playing career, but Dyche recognises that Duff, who is fully-qualified after completing his pro-licence, could have something to offer in a coaching capacity.

He said: “It’s something that I’ve been discussing with the board and Michael’s aware of that. He has been a fantastic servant.

“When I got here people, ex-managers, were saying ‘I’m not sure he’s got much left in him’, but he’s certainly done all right to say the least since I’ve been here.

“I think he is one of the dying breed of footballers who has become part of the fabric of the football club from his service here, from his own story being brought here for peanuts and what he’s done for the club, and all the history that comes with it.

“He’s got a thirst to go into that side of things, so we are looking at that.

“He’s still got football left in him, he’s still keeping himself proper and right at the moment because he knows at any time it could change.”