Espanyol boss Quique Flores turns down move to Stoke City

Stoke City have been dealt a blow in their search for a new manager after Quique Flores decided to remain at Espanyol.

In recent days, it has been claimed that Stoke were prepared to give Flores a five-year contract in order to return to English football, having previously managed Watford.

However, Flores has claimed that he 'has all he needs' in his homeland with Espanyol, who currently sit in ninth place in the La Liga table.

The 52-year-old told reporters: "Here I have all I need. I am the coach and will continue to be until the end of the season.

"I belong to Espanyol, I have contract and am honest with the club. I do not understand that you put so much effort in coach. I am well and quite happy with my situation. I don't have to explain anything else."

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill is now regarded as the favourite to replace Mark Hughes at the Potters.