Roy Keane not keen on Albion job

Roy Keane's representatives today dismissed a link with Albion after the Irishman leapt to second favourite with bookmakers for the Hawthorns head coach's job.

Keane climbed the odds markets late yesterday and was second favourite behind Chris Hughton this morning with his price as short as 3-1 with some firms.

But solicitor Michael Kennedy, who represents the former Manchester United captain, today played down the speculation as Keane builds his new career as a television pundit with ITV.

Kennedy said: "I'm not aware of anything happening. Roy is doing his TV work at present and I think he is enjoying that for the moment."

Albion were continuing to narrow down their search for a new boss this afternoon with Hughton still believed to be high on their shortlist, although Birmingham have not given up on persuading the former Newcastle chief to stay at St Andrew's.

The Baggies planned to take their time in the search for Roy Hodgson's successor with sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth taking soundings from potential candidates before he, chairman Jeremy Peace and chief executive Mark Jenkins zero in on their preferred choice.

But Villa's decision to sack Alex McLeish and Kenny Dalglish's dismissal by Liverpool last night could intensify efforts at The Hawthorns, with the Baggies keen not to be left in a queue of clubs hunting new managers.

They are believed to have kept tabs on Roberto Martinez of Wigan, but sources at the DW Stadium have cast doubt on whether the Spaniard would see a move to The Hawthorns as a big enough step up to risk his growing reputation.

One of the new boss's first decisions will surround the futures of midfielders Paul Scharner and Keith Andrews. The pair are out of contract but sporting director Ashworth has not ruled out new offers to the duo.

"We are holding open the possibility of negotiations to enable both players to come back to The Hawthorns," said Ashworth.