City play down Jordan takeover reports

MANCHESTER City have played down reports of a £100m (148m) takeover bid by former Coventry chairman Bryan Richardson and ex-Formula One boss Eddie Jordan.

It was reported the bid would involve installing Gordon Strachan as manager.

However, the Strachan link was greeted with scepticism, as caretaker boss Stuart Pearce is expected to be confirmed as permanent manager this week.

City officials said there has been no contact with Richardson or Jordan and while chief executive Alistair Mackintosh continues to search for fresh investment, none has so far been forthcoming.

“We have received no contact from Mr Richardson nor Mr Jordan,” said City spokesman Paul Tyrrell. “In fact, there has been no new development on investment in the club for over a year. It is our belief that Mr Jordan is in fact a shareholder in Manchester United.”