Blackpool deny Holloway approach

Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston says the club have not received an approach from Swansea to speak to Ian Holloway over their managerial vacancy.

Holloway's name has featured consistently among the list of leading contenders to succeed Brendan Rodgers at the Liberty Stadium and there had been suggestions that he was set to hold talks with the Swans.

However, Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins is currently out of the country on holiday and a Blackpool spokesman told Press Association Sport that the club had received no contact from the south Wales side.


"I know it's manager silly season at the moment but we've not had a call from anyone enquiring about taking Ian as manager. That amazes me, I have to say, after what he has done here, what he has worked with and the way he has gone about things.

"I would think that would make him a prime candidate for other clubs to consider. However, surprisingly, and I am very pleased about it, we have not had any calls and I hope that continues."

Former France and Chelsea defender Marcel Desailly emerged as one of the favourites for the Swans job over the weekend, having completed his UEFA coaching qualifications with the Football Association of Wales and spoken of his admiration for Swansea's passing style.

Former Arsenal and Holland striker Dennis Bergkamp has also received plenty of backing despite the Ajax number two previously stating he had no desire to become a manager.

Michael Laudrup's agent said there had been no contact with Swansea over a move for the former Barcelona and Real Madrid midfielder, but the Dane's reputation for producing attacking football at Getafe and Mallorca means he fits the Welsh club's wish to continue with their tactical approach.

The only man known to have had talks over the vacancy is Wigan assistant manager Graeme Jones.

It was thought the 42-year-old, who had a previous spell at the Liberty as Roberto Martinez's assistant before following the Spaniard to Wigan, had fallen down the pecking order due to reservations over taking his first managerial position. However, it is understood he remains a leading contender for the job.