Deeney is perfect example for Gray

Clarets boss Sean Dyche feels striker Andre Gray could do worse than be inspired by Watford frontman Troy Deeney's rise.
Troy DeeneyTroy Deeney
Troy Deeney

Deeney will aim to shoot Burnley down at Turf Moor on Monday night, and look to add to the two goals he has scored in five Premier League outings this season - including a penalty in the 3-1 win over Manchester United at Vicarage Road on Sunday.

Dyche worked with the 28-year-old at Watford, during his time as assistant manager and manager, and the striker began to blossom under his tutelage.

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Like Gray, Deeney has come through troubled times, including a spell in non-league, and serving three months in prison.

Andre Gray celebrates his goal against LiverpoolAndre Gray celebrates his goal against Liverpool
Andre Gray celebrates his goal against Liverpool

Dyche said: “My staff and myself worked hard with all the group at Watford, and certainly Troy, who started to flourish.

“He was doing okay under Malky (Mackay) but had a strong season after we took over, and has gone from strength to strength since.

“He’s put a lot of hard work in, physically and mentally, to add to his base ability, but he’s a good guy and a very rounded player.

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“He’s got a good story, similar to Andre, but different, in the journey they’ve taken.

Andre Gray celebrates his goal against LiverpoolAndre Gray celebrates his goal against Liverpool
Andre Gray celebrates his goal against Liverpool

“Troy has continued to develop each year, and he’s a great example, he’s done a fine job.”

Deeney has been touted for an England call-up by Ian Wright, and Dyche added: “I don’t know whether that will come his way this time, but there are the likes of Troy, Ingsy, Charlie Austin, Jamie Vardy, Andre at the top level now, and it opens the debate on elite academies, as players who didn’t come through that way, but are scoring goals and performing in the Premier League.”

Dyche expects a tough test on Monday night in front of the Sky Sports cameras against Walter Mazzarri’s Hornets, fresh from an impressive display against United: “Woany (Ian Woan) and Tony (Loughlan) went to the game and they look a good side, they have a big playing staff in terms of numbers, and have kept changing the manager, but they’ve had success with that.

“It’s a completely different club from when I was there, the Pozzo family have changed the whole direction of the club, and moved it on.”

Striker Ashley Barnes remains out with a hamstring problem.