New deal for Coyle

Owen joined the club in November 2007 and signed a three and a half year contract at the time. Media speculation recently, particularly linking him with his old club Bolton, led to him saying that he was already considering a new deal and that he would stay at Burnley just as long as he was wanted.

Yesterday it was revealed he is close to signing that new deal that will add at least one more year onto his stay at Turf Moor.

Coyle revealed: "I sat with Brendan and the chairman a week ago and I think more or less we are thereabouts in principle.

"There are certain things that motivate me and I want to fulfil the project I came here to do and the plan I have in place. That was the biggest thing for me. Wherever I have been I have never been motivated by money.

"So we are not a million miles away. The biggest problem is getting us all sat down together because Brendan and the chairman have businesses to run, but the first chance we have to sit down together I am sure we can put it to bed."

He added: "I am committed and focused here and it is nice when people say nice things, but my concentration is here at the football club and nothing will distract me from that."

Brendan Flood added: "I think bar putting pen to paper we have agreed a contract which Owen is content with. Then, hopefully he will be leading us to success wherever we are. It is at least a year more and might be longer."