Appleton relief at end of Burnley saga

In-demand Michael Appleton reflected on Burnley's new managerial appointment and admitted: Thank goodness for that.

The Championship club yesterday appointed former Watford boss Sean Dyche as their manager.

He will be joined at Turf Moor by former Pompey first-team coach Ian Woan, as the Clarets’ long-standing interest in Appleton finally comes to a close.

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There was never an official approach made for the Pompey manager from the Championship club.

Nonetheless, the 36-year-old was on their shortlist and indications of their interest had been made.

Regardless, Appleton has long stated he is settled at Fratton Park.

Bolton were another club linked with his services, although they have since appointed Dougie Freedman as Owen Coyle’s successor.

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In turn, Crystal Palace are now seeking a replacement for Freedman, with Appleton hotly-fancied by the bookies.

The Pompey boss, though, is just relieved all speculation surrounding him and Burnley has now been put to bed.

He said: ‘I’m hearing these Palace rumours now.

‘It was Burnley before that and thankfully that has been filled now.

‘That couldn’t come quick enough for me is all I can say.

‘It was a case of “please just give Sean Dyche the job and let me get on with mine”.

‘I’ve had it (speculation) for two-and-a-half weeks now.

‘That’s long enough.’

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Stan James have Appleton as 6/4 favourite to become the next Palace boss.

Behind him they have MK Dons manager Karl Robinson at 7/2.

Coral also have Appleton at 6/4, while BetVictor have him at 5/4.

Ian Holloway, Steve Coppell, Mick McCarthy, Alan Curbishley, Gordon Strachan and Gareth Southgate are also fancied.