BLACKBURN Rovers boss Graeme Souness today shot down talk of a summer move for Arsenal defender Ashley Cole.

According to a report in one of the Sunday papers, Rovers have been linked with the 19-year-old left-back, who is currently on loan at Crystal Palace.

But, despite the fact the youngster looked impressive and scored a goal against Rovers at Selhurst on Saturday, Souness has revealed he is not tracking the teenager.

"I believe he did well against us on Saturday but he is not one we are looking at at the moment," said Souness.

Meanwhile, skipper Lee Carsley could be in for a dressing down today following his sending off at Palace.

The Republic of Ireland international saw red after kicking out at midfielder Stephen Thomson in a 67th minute flash point.

Carsley will now miss the opening three games of next season and Souness has made it clear he will not tolerate such behaviour.

"I haven't seen the incident on video yet but from what I have heard it was a bad one," said Souness.

"It's not acceptable getting sent off for anything other than tackling.

"You do mis-time tackles occasionally and that will happen from time to time with competitive midfield players.

"But it's not acceptable getting punished for anything else."

Souness was also waiting for further news on striker Egil Ostenstad today, who injured a knee in the warm-up before last Saturday's clash at Palace. A scan has revealed the Norwegian international did not suffer any serious damage.

But as yet it is not clear whether he will be available for Sunday's clash with Manchester City.

"Egil has had his scan and nothing showed up so we are hoping it's just bruising," said Souness.

"But it's a bit too early to say at the moment."

Manchester City could have £20 million hinging on their visit to Ewood on Sunday.

The Blues need a draw to clinch a return to the Premiership and the outcome will have major financial implications.

Television rights from Sky TV would be worth around £8 million while increased ticket sales could generate a further £2 million should City go up.

City chairman David Bernstein also claims he can lay his hands on another £10 million -- provided the Blues get promoted.

Manager Joe Royle -- today named Division One manager of the month -- is not feeling the extra pressure, however, and insists his side can see the job through.

"I have complete faith in my players to get at least what we need. I know we can cope," said Royle.

And defender Richard Jobson added: "We have believed all season we can make it without the need for the play-offs.

"We are more convinced than ever of that."

Royle, meanwhile, is hoping to sign Shaun Wright-Phillips -- son of Burnley striker Ian Wright -- on a four-year deal.

Wright-Phillips, 19, has made a big impact at Maine Road and has started his first two senior games this season.