Sean Dyche has dismissed speculation linking him with the managerial position at Tottenham Hotspur but acknowledged they are a ‘brilliant club’.
Dyche has been mentioned as a possible candidate to replace interim boss Igor Tudor due to Tottenham’s poor run of form in the Premier League.
Spurs have suffered five defeats in their last seven matches under Tudor.
Those results have left the club dangerously close to the relegation zone with the season entering its decisive stage.
Tottenham do not play again until April 12, when they face Sunderland.
Despite the speculation, Dyche insists there have been no discussions with the club and that he first heard about the speculation in a local pub.
“Honestly, it’s brilliant,” Dyche said. “I was in the pub just up the way near my place, and a guy said to me, ‘You’re meant to be in talks with Spurs tonight?’”
“I told him I’m sitting next to you having a pint of Guinness, so it’s unlikely, unless you work for Spurs.”
The 54-year-old confirmed Tottenham had not approached him.
Dyche was recently dismissed by Nottingham Forest and is currently without a club.
His reputation for organising disciplined teams has led to him being linked with clubs facing relegation battles.
Dyche acknowledged that speculation about managerial vacancies is a common part of football.
“To give you an inside view, when you’re a manager you know you’re going to be asked about these things,” Dyche added.
“You try to be respectful because clubs like Tottenham are massive clubs.”
Dyche also reflected on his early memories of watching Spurs as a young fan.
“One of my first memories is Ricky Villa’s goal,” he said, referencing the famous strike in the 1981 FA Cup final.
While flattering, Dyche admitted that speculation surrounding potential jobs can quickly become exaggerated.
“You say you’re flattered, and people say you haven’t said no,” he explained. “Then if you say no, they say you secretly want it anyway.”
Tottenham have not confirmed any plans to change their managerial situation.
The club continue to back Tudor as they attempt to stabilise their season and move away from the relegation battle.
