Sean Dyche distances himself from Tottenham links as pressure mounts on Igor Tudor

Pressure has intensified at Spurs following a difficult run of results, including a heavy 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest that has left the North London side hovering just above the relegation zone. With no fixture until April 12 and concerns over Tudor's future - compounded by the recent passing of his father, Mario - the club's managerial outlook remains unclear.

Dyche, who has been among the names mentioned as a potential replacement, moved quickly to dismiss claims that he has held discussions with Tottenham. Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Burnley and Everton boss responded with humour to rumours sparked by his presence in London.

"I was in the pub just up the way near my place," Dyche explained. "I've got down here and this guy goes, 'ah, you're meant to be in talks with Spurs tonight?' And I say, 'I'm sat next to you having a pint of Guinness, so it's unlikely - unless you work for Spurs!'"

He reiterated the point more bluntly: "No, I'm not (in talks). I'm with you and I'm on talkSPORT, that's what we're doing."

Despite rejecting the speculation, Dyche acknowledged the complications that arise when managers are publicly linked with jobs, describing it as a "very tricky situation."

"When you're linked to a club you get constant clickbait and no matter what you do it's difficult," he said. "When you're a manager you know you're going to get asked these questions at some point. You try to be respectful.

"Tottenham are a brilliant club and a massive club, so when you say 'I'm flattered' everyone then goes 'he hasn't said no.'"

The 54-year-old also reflected on his long-standing admiration for Spurs, referencing iconic moments such as Ricky Villa's famous FA Cup final goal, but made it clear that respect should not be mistaken for intent.

While Dyche appears to be out of the running, uncertainty continues to surround Tottenham's immediate future. Reports suggest the club could soon make a decision on Tudor, with the relegation battle intensifying after a run of five defeats in seven matches.

There is at least some positive news on the injury front. Forward Mathys Tel is reportedly expected to return after the international break, having avoided a serious issue following the defeat to Forest. The 20-year-old has already withdrawn from the France U21 squad and is targeting a comeback in Spurs' next fixture, as the club fights to secure its Premier League status.

For now, however, the managerial picture remains unresolved - and Dyche, despite the rumours, is firmly on the outside looking in.

READ MORE: Ivory Coast, Senegal and Madagascar impress with strong international friendly wins