PRESTON look set to hang on to prize asset David Moyes after Steve Bruce was all but installed as Birmingham Ciy's new boss.

Bruce is reported to have not turned in for work at Palace today, prompting speculation he is set to leave the London highflyers for perennial flops Birmingham City.

City have been scouting for a new manager ever since Trevor Francis was axed following a poor run of results - including a defeat by Preston.

Moyes was named as one of three managers Birmingham were interested in, with Bruce number one.

But the fact North End have said he is not for grabs seems to have killed off Birmingham - and Moyes wouldn't like to be anybody's public second choice.