Crystal Palace have been dealt a fresh blow in their bid to turn the corner. Eddie Howe has turned down the chance to take over as head coach, removing one of the leading names tipped to replace Frenchman Pierre Sage as results slide and the club sit rooted to the bottom of the table.

According to the French website "Foot Mercato", Palace are preparing to part ways with Sage during the international break. They are weighing up several candidates for the job, led by former Tottenham and Brentford boss Thomas Frank, along with Sean Dyche.

British newspaper "The Sun" revealed that Howe rejected a recent offer from the London club, despite being ready to return to management. He left Newcastle United last July after five years at the helm.

At 48, the English manager has also been linked with Manchester United. He is viewed as one of the candidates to take charge should the club's hierarchy decide to move on from Michael Carrick.