BURNLEY were this afternoon refused permission to speak to St Johnstone boss Owen Coyle - their number one target for the Clarets manager's post.

The Clarets made an approach for Coyle, but the Scottish First Division club have knocked back their initial request.

A club statement said: "Burnley Football Club today asked permission from St Johnstone to negotiate with their manager Owen Coyle over the vacancy at Turf Moor.

"Compensation was offered if it transpired that Mr Coyle was later appointed as Burnley manager.

"However, permission to negotiate has currently been refused and the two clubs are unable to reach an agreement."