Gianfranco Zola's agent has dismissed reports that the Italian is in line to take Brian McDermott's place as manager of Leeds United.

McDermott's future at the Championship club was cast into doubt following the arrival of new owner Massimo Cellino, with the former Watford boss tipped to replace him next season.

However, Zola's representative Fulvio Marruccio was quick to quash such speculation.

"Absolutely not. But I think we will see him back on a bench in England soon enough, rather than back in Italy," Marruccio told PA when asked whether Zola could join Leeds next season.

"The one thing I can tell you today is that Zola will not be Leeds's coach for next season."

Cellino is said to be keen to keep McDermott on as manager until the end of the season, with a potential replacement likely to be sought in the summer.

Written by
Mark Langshaw