Birmingham City have reportedly claimed that the club have not received an approach from West Bromwich Albion to speak to manager Chris Hughton.

The former Newcastle United boss is believed to be a leading candidate for the managerial spot at the Hawthorns following Roy Hodgson's departure to the England national team.

While recent reports have claimed that Hughton is close to making a return to the Premier League, it is understood that Birmingham have refuted suggestions that contact has been made between the two parties, according to Sky Sports News.

Meanwhile, former Chelsea coach Claudio Ranieri has ruled himself out of the running for the Baggies job after signing a two-year deal to become Monaco's new manager.