Kilby said: 'We have received no approach from Celtic for Owen. If Celtic approach me today, tomorrow or the day after that, I will turn them down.
'If Owen was sat here opposite me right now, I would say to him that this is a fabulous stage and that he has to try out his skills in the biggest league in the world.
'He has a big career in front of him and a big opportunity to try his hand against the very best the Premier League has to offer.
'There is no clause in his contract that allows Owen to walk away. He has another two years remaining on his present deal and we have already had discussions on a new one.
'We have a job to do in the Premier League and so far as I am concerned Owen will be here doing that job next season whether Celtic call me or not.'
This on the face of it sounds like the standard comments of a Chairman who is resigned to the fact that he is about to lose his star asset, but an official statement by Owen Coyle himself suggests that he is destined to disregard the lure of managing his heroes.
Or is he just bluffing for a bit of space whilst he mulls over Celtics offer, which we understand is on the table till lunchtime on Friday.
"There has been no approach to Burnley Football Club"
"It is simply people putting two and two together and getting five"
"I am going on holiday with my family this weekend, and I can assure you I will do so as Burnley Manager"
We'll see.
Yours in Celtic
Clydebuilt