Dowie frustrated by delay

Managing director Paul Fletcher said that they had to be realistic about the situation after American consortium Manhattan Sports Capital Partners continued to discuss the purchase of the Sky Blues months after initially declaring an interest.

"I don't think there is a chance now because of these protracted negotiations," he told the Coventry Telegraph. "There is no point in me misleading him or the fans.

"It is almost certain now it will not be concluded or rushed through quickly just so Iain Dowie gets money to buy new players this summer.

"If you ask me an honest question, I think we have missed this particular transfer window. That is life."

Dowie has signed nine players already on free transfers or on loan. He voiced concerns recently that he would not receive any money to spend on top of that.

After steering the club to 17th place and safety last season, it seems that those fears have now been confirmed.