Rumour Mill- Barry Robson

The Clarets have been linked in both the national and local press with moves for Dundee United midfielder Barry Robson and Celtic striker Derek Riordan. Vital Burnley reported the Riordan rumour a couple of weeks ago but recent speculation has also identified Robson as a possible target.

The 29 year old, Scottish International started his professional career with Rangers but failed to make an appearance in his two years at Ibrox (1995-97). He made his name with Inverness Caledonian Thistle before signing for Dundee United in July 2005 for £50,000. The midfielder also has the knack of scoring goals and has been captain of the Dundee club.Last season he was the League's top scoring midfielder with a ratio of 1 in less than 3 games.

Robson received his first Scottish International cap when selected for the friendly against South Africa, making his debut as a second-half substitute

The gaffer, Owen Coyle has however played down speculation concerning both these players ahead of the January transfer window opening in a few days time

'Particularly in Scotland there's been speculation, and, to be fair, they are players I've worked with as a coach with Dundee United,' he said.

'But I have not spoken to any other manager or representative.

'Yes, as a staff, we have (talked about players), but I certainly haven't made any inroads into pursuing anybody, and that's where we are.'

It had been reported by Sky Sports that we were about to fork out £750,000 for the player with Wolves, Celtic, Rangers and Hearts also interested. Dundee United manager Craig Levein also has insisted that no offers have been received for the midfielder.

"I know absolutely nothing about this because we've had no contact and it is not something I am going to spend much time on," he said in the Daily Record.

"If something happened, there would be plenty of time for discussion and one thing I am sure of is that it will not bother Barry because he's heard it all before."