Burnley manager Sean Dyche is doubtful of any new additions to his squad this month as they look to preserve their Premier League status.
The Clarets have been on an upward curve recently and last weekend’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over fellow strugglers Fulham moved them three points clear of the relegation zone.
With four wins in succession in all competitions, confidence is high at Turf Moor though Dyche – who had been linked with a move for Derby’s teenage defender Jayden Bogle in the transfer window – expects no new arrivals.
He said: “It’s not looking likely at the moment, there’s nothing that’s particularly close.
“There were a couple of situations that we thought we could open that haven’t, so there’s nothing that close at the moment. We all know it’s a tough window.”
As for the speculation around Bogle, Dyche added: “I don’t know where these links come from, they’re coming thick and fast at the minute.”
Dyche still has a couple of fitness concerns ahead of the visit to his former club Watford this weekend although he feels the injury situation is improving.
Johann Berg Gudmundsson is touch and go after missing Burnley’s last two fixtures with a thigh injury while defensive pair Matt Lowton and Phil Bardsley are both carrying unspecified knocks.
Midfielder Steven Defour and defender Stephen Ward are in contention after featuring for the under-23s earlier this week but goalkeeper Nick Pope will definitely miss out, as will the suspended Robbie Brady.
Dyche said: “We’re waiting on Johan. He is getting better but I think it will be a judgement – between him, the physios and ourselves (on Friday).
“Bardo has still got a bit of a knock – he managed to get through last week – as has Matt Lowton. We’re hopeful on possibly both, certainly we’re very hopeful on one being able to be fit.
“Steven got 75 minutes in an under-23 game so that means he’s continuing to get back on himself and right. Wardy the same.
“Popey’s had another full game, not there yet but looking well and enjoying his work in training, so he’s kind of at the end of his pre-season, if you like. We’ll keep monitoring that. Robbie’s obviously suspended.
“We’re still stretched, we’re still looking to get back to a full squad, it’s been difficult this season but that’s what we’re looking to achieve.
“If it can’t happen this weekend then over the next couple of weeks.”
