Time was ticking away on John Dyche’s career after Boxing Day 2018. Following three consecutive losses, including a crushing 1-5 home loss to Everton, his six-year reign seemed to be over. However, rather than making a rash decision, the club decided to give his first-in-command more time to turn things around.

Well, hasn’t he done so magnificently? After the boxing day loss to Everton, The Clarets are now unbeaten in their last eight Premier League games. Not only have they managed to defeat the lower-table teams they initially struggled against, but they’ve also taken points from the big guns.

In the space of a few months, Dyche’s managed to reform the Burnley of old, which had managed a stunning seventh place finish under him last season. Lady Luck played in his favour as well. The injuries calmed down, key players returned and the back-to-back losses propelled Dyche into giving his players a reality check, therefore reigniting their flame. 

Burnley have only conceded seven goals in eight games, winning five and drawing three since that Boxing Day humiliation. Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes have created nightmares for oppositions' defences with their physicality and chemistry, contributing in 10 out of their 14 goals scored in the unbeaten run.

Tom Heaton’s inspired work in goal reinvigorated Burnley’s defenders to retain their rock-solid nature, reigniting the Clarets mean defensive reputation. Garlick’s decision to keep faith in Dyche’s worked wonders and the likes of Chelsea and Everton should monitor Burnley’s revival before sacking their own managers.

It's become clear that, at least sometimes, patience is the answer.