Last Updated: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:53
Preston chairman Derek Shaw has issued a strong 'hands off' warning to West Brom over in-demand boss Alan Irvine.
Lilyywhites boss Irvine has been one of the bookies' favourites for the vacant Hawthorns post since ex-manager Tony Mowbray left the Baggies for Celtic.
But, despite acknowledging that Irvine will make any decision over his future, Shaw is adamant that the former Everton player and assistant manager will not leave Deepdale for the rival Championship club.
He told the club's official website: "If any calls came in then the decision would be down to the manager himself, if the terms of his contract were met, but this is something we would vehemently oppose.
"I have spoken to Alan nearly every day this week, and preparations continue for pre-season - as well as continuing to make enquiries about players as normal.
"The last thing in the world PNE need at this time is to be searching for another manager - it would be a disaster for us. Alan has progressed the club over the past 18 months, and we want that progression to continue."
Shaw's comments come days after Cardiff City chairman Peter Ridsdale gave a similar hands-off warning to West Brom over the case of Dave Jones. Meanwhile former midfielder Derek McInnes has ruled out a move to the Hawthorns by pledging his future to St Johnstone.