O'Neill dismisses Boyd link

Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill has dismissed reports that he wants to sign Rangers striker Kris Boyd.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has confirmed he would like to sign the Scotland international who is out of contract in the summer.

And there were reports that Boyd was spotted at Villa Park during Wednesday’s Carling Cup semi-final clash with Blackburn.

But O’Neill is adamant Boyd is not on his radar.

O’Neill said: “I don’t know if players are at football games but the other part I can definitely comment on.

“I was quite surprised to see the story that he is signing for us.

“Of course, I know the player very well indeed. He was in Scotland when I was in charge of Celtic – but there isn’t any truth in it.”

O’Neill echoed the sentiments earlier today of McLeish in expecting midfielder Craig Gardner to move to St. Andrews

He said: “I think it will get done. In terms of communication, I haven’t heard a great deal from Birmingham but they are not a million miles away from agreeing things.”