Blackburn boss Paul Ince has refused to comment on speculation linking him with the managerial vacancy at Newcastle.

He only took up the job at Ewood Park in June after the departure of Mark Hughes, but he has emerged as one of the front-runners to succeed Kevin Keegan at St James' Park.

The former MK Dons boss is a mate of Dennis Wise, who has been handed the job of picking the new boss, and Wise gave him a coaching job during his days as Swindon manager.

Ince: "It is flattering to be linked to any club but it is speculation and I do not comment on speculation."