Bristol City boss Steve Coppell has laughed off reports that Michael Owen could be the next England international to join the championship club. With veteran keeper David James having made a shock switch to Ashton Gate this summer, reports appeared which suggested the Manchester United striker could be set to follow suit.

Robins boss Coppell moved swiftly to brush aside claims that Owen could join the Championship side on loan to build up his fitness, saying: "It's fantasy island stuff."

And he later added on the club's official website: "I try to ignore reports like this but of course people will ask me the questions."

And with tongue pressed firmly in his cheek, Coppell continued: "We've tried for Rooney, Ronaldo and Messi, but they haven't returned our calls yet.

"We held discussions with Michael Owen about travelling down in his helicopter but it's not come to anything."