Mowbray distances himself from pair

Albion boss Tony Mowbray has cooled reports again linking him with Aston Villa forward Luke Moore and Hibernian full-back David Murphy. Reports linked both players with summer move to The Hawthorns, particularly Moore during transfer negotiations regarding Curtis Davis.

Local striker Moore has recently rejected a new contract at Villa Park however Mowbray claims he has had no contact with Martin O'Neill.

"I don't know where this comes from," said Mowbray.

"I have every respect for these players but we must remember: Luke Moore has played for Aston Villa in the Premier League.

"I don't know what he earns, but I'm assuming it's money that our players can only dream of. I've never had any conversations with Martin O'Neill about any of his players."

Murphy was first linked with the Baggies when Paul Robinson's future at the club was uncertain. The left-back has recently changed agents and is reportedly seeking a move away from Hibs.

"Again, I've never had any conversations with John Collins or Rod Petrie about David Murphy.

"He plays for a club I used to manage and nothing more.

"The boy is apparently unsettled and may want to move, but I'm assuming an agent is trying to create interest and people are associating this club with him. Again, it's speculation and nothing more." Mowbray added.