MIKE Newell's bid to become the next manager of Burnley could be scuppered by the former Luton boss's impending court case.

Newell is in the process of suing his former employers, claiming unfair dismissal.

He was sacked after publicly questioning where the money received from player sales had gone.

The Luton board terminated his contract with immediate effect in March this year in the wake of criticism from supporters.

Although linked with various managerial posts since his departure, Newell has remained out of the game.

He was reportedly close to taking charge of MK Dons as Martin Allen's replacement, but the League Two side appointed Paul Ince in June.

Newell is the skybet bookmakers' favourite to take the reins at Turf Moor, at 2/1, but as I understand it, the 42-year-old may be reluctant to take up a new post at the risk of losing a substantial amount of money that he is claiming from Luton.

Therefore, it is unlikely Newell will move on until the case has been heard, unless his new club was prepared to match the figure he hopes to receive for loss of earnings.