Burnley boss Sean Dyche has explained why he is taking Albion midfielder Dale Stephens to Turf Moor.

The transfer could be completed as today as Stephens heads to East Lancs.

Dyche was evasive when asked about the signing in the run-up to the Clarets’ Carabao Cup tie at Millwall last night.

But he had more to say after the game.

Dyche believes Stephens’ competitive nature and wealth of experience will fit in well at Burnley.

He said: “We like competitive players who can add in-house competition and I think he can add to that.

“I think Dale brings a calmness, experience and composure. He’s been through quite a few managers there (at Albion), so he’s had quite a good experience of different way of working.

“I think he will enjoy the group, the way our players bond and the work ethic and I think he will buy into all that, so hopefully he will do well here.”

Stephens was set to undergo a medical yesterday and missed Albion's win at Preston.

Dyche added: “We think it’s a case of dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s with Dale and hopefully we’ll confirm in the next 24 hours.

“He is a player I have liked historically and he fits with the financial thinking.

“I’ve tried to sign him in the past and I have often stuck with targets I’ve managed to sign here.”