Clarets boss hopes McCann stays

18 June 2011 09:17
urnley boss Eddie Howe remains hopeful of keeping out-of-contract midfielder Chris McCann at Turf Moor, despite interest from Bolton.[LNB] The 23-year-old, a youth product at Burnley, has been linked with a move to the Trotters this summer to reunite with former Clarets boss Owen Coyle. [LNB]But Howe is confident the club can negotiate a new deal with the Irish midfielder. [LNB]He told Burnley's official website: "We are in discussions with Chris and we are very hopeful that we can reach a positive conclusion. [LNB]"We are very keen for him to stay. He's a massive part of our plans going forward." [LNB]Howe also remains optimistic of signing former loanee and England Under-21 international Jack Cork from Chelsea. [LNB]He added: "Jack is away with England at the moment. We are talking to him, his representatives and to Chelsea and we will have to wait and see what happens."[LNB]Howe is yet to clinch his first signing of the summer but expects to delve into the transfer market before the window closes. [LNB]"The focus is on signings and players and has been for most of the summer," he added. [LNB]"We are on the hunt for players. We have identified players a long time ago and it's just a case of getting over the line with them. [LNB]"It's been quite a slow summer in terms of transfers. Most teams have been taking a watching brief but I'm sure once one starts they will all fall into place. [LNB]"I think there will be a lot of activity but it will probably be crammed into the end of June."

Source: Team_Talk