Rovers admit Maradona talks

The owners of Blackburn have admitted approaching Argentina legend Diego Maradona with a view to appointing him as manager.

Blackburn’s Indian owners, the Venky’s Group, stunned the English football community by sacking boss Sam Allardyce on Monday.

The owners claimed the manager’s vision did not measure up to their expectations of a top-five finish in the league, and are reportedly keen to promote a more marketable brand of football than the dour, defensive style Allardyce is known for.

One of the names being touted as a possible replacement is Maradona, who is keen to make a move to the Premier League after his stint at the helm of Argentina came to end following the World Cup.

Venky’s chairman Anuradha Desai confirmed the owners had held preliminary discussions with Maradona, but stressed caretaker coach Steve Kean would remain in charge at Ewood Park until the season’s end.

“We thought about Maradona as a coach after we took over,” Desai said.

“Talks were at the initial stage then, but there is no development on that front yet. For now, the current coach will be the manager till the end of the season.”

“There is no question of signing anyone for such a short time.”

“Kean is well connected with the game and the players as well. We have full faith that he will do the best job and keep the team motivated.”

“He works long hours and is talented at his job. He also works well with our very skilful young players – and that is important.”

Desai also refuted reports that Blackburn chairman John Williams had to be talked out of resigning following Allardyce’s sacking.

“We have not taken any hasty decision in replacing the manager with the coach. It was a long, pending issue and it’s a calculated risk,” Desai said.

“I don’t want to get into why we were unhappy with Allardyce, or any kind of negative remarks.”

“John Williams is close to Allardyce but he is very much with us and he has not expressed any willingness to quit. His position in the team is safe.”