Celtic in no hurry - which is just as well.

Byline: BEN RUMSBY

CELTIC chairman John Reid has insisted the club are in no rush to appoint Gordon Strachan's successor as manager.

The Hoops' chances of filling the vacancy quickly have been scuppered after the two leading contenders appeared to be ruled out of the running.

Burnley manager Owen Coyle and West Brom counterpart Tony Mowbray were immediately installed as the bookies' favourites following Strachan's departure on Monday.

But Coyle pledged his future to the Clarets, while the Baggies issued a hands off warning over Mowbray.

Reid insists Celtic have yet to make an official approach for any candidate.

He said: "The club is currently engaged in the process of identifying a new football manager.

"We are considering a number of possible candidates. However, we have made no official approach to any club.

"Clearly, Celtic's priority is to appoint the very best candidate.

"We will aim to do this as soon as we possibly can, but we will also do so in a professional, considered manner and ensure that we appoint the correct individual for the club and its supporters." Coyle, who has just led

Burnley into the top flight of English football for the first time in 33 years, was believed to be the Hoops' number one target.

However, Turf Moor chairman Barry Kilby revealed this afternoon the 42-year-old was "very close" to agreeing a two-year extension to his current contract.

Coyle said: "I'm very much focused on what we are going to hope to do in the Premier League."

CAPTION(S):

Owen Coyle