CITY joint-chairman Mark Lawn tonight revealed there has been no approach from Sheffield United for manager Phil Parkinson.

The Blades sacked Nigel Clough today and Parkinson was swiftly installed as the overwhelming favourite to succeed him at 1-4.

Parkinson is ahead of some stellar names in the bookmakers' odds – such as Glenn Hoddle, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Alan Curbishley and former Bantams boss Stuart McCall, who is currently in charge of Rangers.

But Lawn told the Telegraph & Argus that City's League One rivals had not contacted the Valley Parade board about Parkinson's availability.

"We have not been approached by Sheffield United and Phil is still under contract to us," said Lawn.

Parkinson signed a new three-year contract after guiding City to promotion in May 2013, so remains tied to the Bantams for another season.

Championship side Derby are also looking for a new boss after axing Steve McClaren as head coach today.