Coyle distances himself from Celtic speculation

OWEN COYLE has ruled out being Celtic's new manager by the weekend – but the Burnley boss stopped short of saying he won't consider becoming Gordon Strachan's successor.

Coyle is in the frame to take over at Parkhead, with reports claiming he has already held talks with chief executive Peter Lawwell. But the Clarets boss last night denied claims he will be in situ before the end of the week.

The 42-year-old former St Johnstone manager said: "There has been no approach to Burnley Football Club. It is people simply putting two and two together and making five. I am going on holiday with my family this weekend and I can assure you I will be doing so as Burnley manager."

Coyle held talks with the Burnley board yesterday over an improved contract in a meeting arranged before the vacancy at Parkhead arose. Whether that is enough to keep him out of the clutches of Celtic – Coyle's boyhood idols – remains to be seen.