PETER HOUSTON was in talks with Dundee United rather than Blackpool yesterday.
Instead of driving south to become boss of the Championship side, Houston and his agent John Colquhoun had discussions with Tannadice chairman Stephen Thompson.
The United manager, whose deal runs out at the end of the season, is being offered terms that are less lucrative than those he currently enjoys, as Thompson aims to cut the salary budget.
That wasn’t the scenario that was expected to unfold for Houston, who had spoken about the interest from Blackpool and was given permission to talk to the Bloomfield Road club.
The view from Blackpool was that they had several other candidates in mind and that their interest was never official.
It now appears too much was read into the contact made by Pool chairman Karl Oyston, who spoke to Thompson on Sunday night and whose interest triggered the go-ahead for Houston to speak if Blackpool got in touch.
It now seems likely they will move for MK Dons boss Karl Robinson instead.
United supremo Thompson said: “The Blackpool chairman spoke to me on Sunday evening and I gave permission for him to speak to Peter.
“It was then left to them to discuss things. As far as I am concerned, it’s business as normal at United.
“We have had a meeting about Peter’s contract and are continuing discussions.”
A club statement last night added: “Directors of Dundee United today met with manager Peter Houston and his representative to discuss his contract situation. These discussions were amicable and will continue later this week.”
Meanwhile, United goalkeeper Marc McCallum has joined Berwick Rangers on loan until the end of the season.
iroache@thecourier.co.uk