Source: Team_Talk
Coyle confident in team spirit
Four games into last season, the Clarets had amassed a paltry two points from a possible 12.
Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich inflicted heavy defeats as August ended without a victory in the Championship.
Coyle did not panic, however, because of the positive vibe he felt in the dressing room.
When Nottingham Forest were defeated, the team took off and eventually secured a place in the Premier League through the play-offs.
Not only that, but they also enjoyed a thrilling Carling Cup run in which they defeated Fulham, Chelsea and Arsenal before losing gallantly to Tottenham in the semi-finals.
Burnley's achievement in reaching the top flight for the first time in 33 years should not be understated. It is all the more remarkable given their status early in the campaign.
Coyle, 42, said: "The team spirit shone through when we had an indifferent start.
"It is easy when you are winning games but also important when things are not going great. We want to foster it and make sure it grows.
"We are singing from the same hymn sheet. We know how important the club is to the town."
Coyle, born and raised in Glasgow, was rewarded for his efforts by recently signing a two-year contract extension.
He arrived at Turf Moor from Perth-based St Johnstone in 2007 as successor to Steve Cotterill after learning his coaching skills in Scotland.
And there is mutual affection between the club and the manager.
"Everyone knows my feelings for Burnley and how much I am enjoying my time here," Coyle added.
"I am fully committed. There is a plan in place and we want it to run for years to come."
Within an hour of the Wembley triumph against Sheffield United, Celtic were trying to lure Coyle to Parkhead, ultimately without success.
And operational director Brendan Flood believes they have the perfect man to take the club forward.
"Owen is a winner," said Flood. "He has the right attitude for Burnley. This is not the place every manager would want to be at.
"The fans have great expectations and there is a huge tradition at the club. Now it is all about making new traditions.
"When you are in the Championship you can only plan for 12 months. Now we can start to plan for three or four years.
"Owen has moulded players who like to attack. He gives them the confidence to knock it around. He is a good judge of character."
Burnley begin their campaign at Stoke on August 15 before champions Manchester United come calling in midweek.
Coyle knows the team's home form will be crucial if they are to avoid a swift return to the second tier.
That is why he has been instrumental in getting club officials to free up part of the David Fishwick Stand to their own supporters.
Coyle said: "This is something I have asked for since day one. When we played Stoke in my first home game we came out to the away fans booing. I could not believe it.
"I welcome this decision with open arms. When we have a full house the atmosphere is conducive to such a football environment.
"We want to make sure this place is rocking. That will help and inspire the players knowing they have that backing."
