Coronation Street legend Alison King has said that her character Carla Connor is unlikely to find love again any time soon.

In heartbreaking scenes over Christmas, Carla was forced to accept that her husband Peter (Chris Gascoyne) had to leave Weatherfield for the sake of his own mental health and they bid an emotional farewell to one another.

Things have since been non-stop for the Underworld boss as she has taken in nephew Bobby (Jack Carroll), fought off possible bankruptcy and become involved in the investigation into the murder of Lauren (Cait Fitton).

As such Carla has had no time for romance - and King believes that it could take her a while to heal, in comments that appear to rule out a fan-speculated surprise romance with DS Lisa Swain (Vicky Myers).

"I don't think she's ready for another relationship at all," she said, "and she's definitely not got her eye on anybody!

"I don't think she's thought twice about it. I think it's the last thing on her mind."

Meanwhile, King thinks that while Bobby proved to be somewhat of a nuisance to Carla when he first showed up, she's now feeling grateful to have a family member nearby.

"That's what she's been missing - especially since Michelle left, she likes having that family link," she explained.

"She just keeps having to remind him to press the recall button for things he's done wrong because he's got no learning curve... we need some more new Connors I think!"

Coronation Street continues Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.