Lincoln City have firmly denied that manager Danny Cowley has spoken to West Brom, as widely reported in the local media.

In a press release sent to Football League World amongst others, they've acknowledged that the manager and his brother Nicky have had amazing success with the Imps, but that contrary to recent reports they have not been officially approached by the Championship side.

They've also confirmed that the in-demand pairing have reiterated their commitment to lead the Imps in League One, a level they've only competed in once since 1986.

"The success we have enjoyed over the last three remarkable seasons has brought us considerable positive coverage and raised the profile of the club, the players and Danny and Nicky Cowley," the release starts by saying.

"The accolades for our management team have been thoroughly deserved and it is understandable if they attract the attention of clubs at a higher level.

"However, we have had no official approach from any club to speak with Danny and Nicky.

"The board talk regularly with Danny and Nicky who remain totally committed and focused on preparations for next season in our new adventure in League One."

The Imps have won three trophies in as many seasons, coming out of the National League in 2017 before lifting the EFL Trophy at Wembley in 2018. This season they lifted their first Football League title since 1976, securing their place in the third tier.

As for the Cowley brothers, they've worked their way up from the very bottom, enjoying huge success with Concord Rangers before almost putting unfashionable Braintree in the Football League, falling in the play-off semi-finals before moving to Sincil Bank.

The Verdict

This is a blow for the Baggies, who seemed to have been in talks with the up and coming manager. The Cowley brothers come as a pair and to lose them would have been tough on Lincoln, who are looking to do more than just survive in League One.

The Baggies may still be interested, but it seems these reports that have emerged recently have been wide of the mark and they may be looking elsewhere for their next boss.