Everton manager Sean Dyche has played down the prospect of losing star players in the winter.

The Toffees are still in a tough financial position amid Premier League FFP breaches.

However, Dyche believes that he will be able to retain his regulars, as 777 Partners close in on a takeover of the club.

Asked by reporters about the matter after a loss to Manchester City, he said: "I think it's fair to say that with a slim squad you don't want to lose players.

“I don't think there's much reality in those situations.

"In one way it's a backhanded compliment, I don't think there were too many talking about our players when we got here and now they are."