Clarets toast Coyle

Owen Coyle has been backed to become one of the top managers in the Barclays Premier League after signing a two-year extension to his contract at newly-promoted Burnley.

It means the Glasgow-born boss will remain at Turf Moor until 2013 after leading the club into the top flight via a play-off victory against Sheffield United.

Operational director Brendan Flood said: "We gave him a great opportunity, he has taken it with both hands and that has given him a chance to perform in the Premier League. We expect Owen to go on and show he can become a top-six manager. I think he will be."

He added: "Owen is from a good, working-class background. He identifies with the fans. He makes the fans feel proud of the club and he feels privileged to be the manager.

Flood believes Coyle's heart lies firmly with Burnley after Celtic, who came calling in the wake of the Wembley victory, were rebuffed.

"Owen had the sternest test of his commitment to the club as he was celebrating. Celtic's approach was within an hour of the win, "said Flood.

"It could not have been any tougher for him as they are from his home town and you have to be concerned when you are in our position.

Coyle admitted the speculation was an unwanted distraction.

He said: "It did not help and maybe took a little bit of edge of things after our Wembley victory.

"I was thinking about remaining in the Premier League and taking the club on, that was all. What we have to do now is move on and make sure we are ready for an exciting challenge."