Bolton speak to Coyle about succeeding Megson at Reebok

Burnley confirmed yesterday that Owen Coyle has held talks with rival Premier League club Bolton with regards to their vacant manager's position. The Scot emerged as favourite to succeed Gary Megson following the latter's dismissal last week after a disappointing two-and-a-half year spell in charge in which he failed to win over fans and with the club facing a relegation battle. A statement issued by Burnley read: "We can now confirm that manager Owen Coyle has held discussions with Bolton over the vacant manager's position at the Reebok Stadium.

"Burnley chairman Barry Kilby will now meet with Coyle to discuss his future at Turf Moor. "This will take place following Coyle's return from Scotland tonight. Burnley will not make any further comment at this time." Coyle, a former Bolton player, has worked wonders at Turf Moor since taking over in 2007 and last season guided the club into the Premier League following a play-off victory against Reading.

Although the Clarets are only two points better off than Bolton in 14th place, Coyle's side have won admirers for the way they have acquitted themselves in the top-flight. Meanwhile, Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini wants all talk of new signings put on the back-burner until after tomorrow's Carling Cup semi-final first-leg against Manchester United. Reports suggest Mancini is set for a reunion with his former charge Patrick Vieira after a loan deal was agreed with Inter Milan. There appears to be little future for Vieira at Inter, where he has failed to impress Mancini's successor, Jose Mourinho. Yet, although Mancini accepts City are now a major attraction for players, he does not want anything getting in the way of preparations for United's visit. "All the players want to join Manchester City," he said. "That is normal with a big club who are going to have a big future.

"People are not only talking about Patrick Vieira, they are also saying Ivan Cordoba and Cristian Chivu. "They are all good players but the most important thing for me is the match against Manchester United." * With agencies