QPR co-owner Bernie Ecclestone has denied reports linking Zinedine Zidane with the vacant managerial role at Loftus Road.

French World Cup winner Zidane was linked with a shock move to Loftus Road last weekend, and the speculation has predictably resurfaced following Luigi de Canio's departure from the club on Thursday.

"I can say 100 per cent categorically 'no' to stories that we have spoken to Zidane," Ecclestone told The Times.

"We have known for six months that the coach would be leaving and we have to draw up the shortlist, but Zidane's name is not on it."

The club statement revealing De Canio's departure by mutual consent added that a successor will be named "in due course".