Colchester United have confirmed that they have refused Town and two other clubs permission to speak to their manager Phil Parkinson. The 38-year-old was amongst Town's preferred candidates to take over from the departing Joe Royle.

The Colchester board met yesterday and ruled out a dialogue between Parkinson and any of the interested parties.

A statement reads: "In view of recent speculation surrounding approaches from other clubs regarding Phil Parkinson, Colchester United can confirm that they have refused permission for three clubs to speak to the manager.

"The U's have refused approaches from Premiership team Charlton Athletic, as well as Championship sides Ipswich Town and Derby County - a position which all three clubs have accepted.

"Whilst recognising that Mr Parkinson must have ambition for the future, it is vital we look to retain him for the future interest of everyone connected with Colchester United at this critical stage.

"Mr Parkinson has been kept fully aware of all developments during this past week."

Town's three leading candidates - Parkinson, Preston's Billy Davies and Tony Mowbray - all now appear to be firmly out of the running. Davies is set to talk to Charlton, while Mowbray wants to remain with Hibs in the SPL.

Chairman David Sheepshanks and chief executive Derek Bowden were in London today for the second of five days of interviews.

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