Steve Coppell has laughed off reports that Michael Owen could be the next England international to join Bristol City.
With veteran goalkeeper David James having made a shock switch to Ashton Gate this summer, reports appeared which suggested the Manchester United striker could be set to follow suit.
Owen, who has netted 40 goals in 89 appearances for his country but does not appear to figure in Fabio Capello's plans, made a goalscoring return to action for the Red Devils in their 7-1 pre-season friendly victory over an Airtricity League XI in Dublin on Wednesday night.
And the 30-year-old, who missed the end of the season after suffering a hamstring injury in the Carling Cup final, is likely to be an important part of Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils squad this term.
Robins boss Coppell moved swiftly to brush aside claims that Owen could join the Championship side on loan to build up his fitness, saying: "It's fantasy island stuff."
And he later added on the club's official website: "I try to ignore reports like this but of course people will ask me the questions."
And with tongue pressed firmly in his cheek, Coppell continued: "We've tried for Rooney, Ronaldo and Messi, but they haven't returned our calls yet.
"We held discussions with Michael Owen about travelling down in his helicopter but it's not come to anything."