MLS outfit New England Revolution have confirmed they have given Plymouth permission to speak with Paul Mariner a former Pilgrims player in the 1970's. Mariner is now being linked with a return to the club to work under manager Paul Sturrock.

The former England international is currently assistant manager to Steve Nicol at the Revolution - a position he has held since 2004.

"Plymouth asked for permission to speak with Paul, which we granted," New England director of communications Lizz Summers told Herald Sport.

"A this point nothing is final and Paul and the rest of the coaches are concentrating on a key match against Chicago."