BURNLEY chairman Barry Kilby admits he has been overwhelmed by the quality of candidates looking to take over at Turf Moor.

Kilby, in an exclusive interview with the Lancashire Telegraph, revealed he and operations director Brendan Flood held interviews for the potential successor to Steve Cotterill over the weekend, with further talks due to take place today.

Reports from South Yorkshire concerning the future of Sheffield Wednesday boss Brian Laws continue to link the former Burnley defender with a return to the Clarets.

Last week, the club angrily rejected an approach from Burnley to speak to their manager, but it is understood that the Clarets are still intent on pursuing Laws about the vacancy.

But names like Mike Phelan, Blackpool boss Simon Grayson, Micky Adams, Paul Simpson and current caretaker manager Steve Davis continue to be linked with the job - vacated by Steve Cotterill just over a week ago.

And although they have narrowed their search down to a shortlist of five, Kilby stressed there had been great interest in the post and said he had been very impressed by the standard of applicants.

"We've had plenty of applicants," he said. "We've also been interviewing over the weekend because I'm conscious that we want to get our season back on track and know which way we're travelling as soon as possible.

"It's not been a difficult process because there have been some quality candidates right across the spectrum, from younger managers to more experienced managers.

"I think the quality that has come through has surprised me a great deal, but it just re-enforces that point that managing a Championship club like Burnley is a very appealing prospect."

It is hoped an appointment could be made as soon as tomorrow afternoon.

One man who won't be in the running is St Johnstone manager Owen Coyle, who has moved to distance himself from speculation linking him with a move to East Lancashire.

Coyle, who signed a contract extension in the summer, is widely regarded as one of the best young managers in Scottish Football after guiding the First Division side to the semi-finals of the CIS and Scottish Cups last season.

But the former Bolton player and Republic of Ireland international said he was unaware of any interest from Burnley.

"It's the first I've heard of that. If there are reports elsewhere linking me I know nothing about them.

"It goes without saying I'm totally focused on St Johnstone," he said.