Lee Johnson left Ashton Gate after Saturday's home defeat to Cardiff
Monday 6 July 2020 10:35, UK
Tony Pulis has distanced himself from the Bristol City manager's job after Lee Johnson was sacked on Saturday.
Pulis was the early favourite with the bookmakers to replace Johnson, whose four-year reign at Ashton Gate came to an end following their home defeat to Cardiff.
Pulis, who managed Bristol City between July 1999 and January 2000, is understood to be flattered by their interest.
However, the 62-year-old has told friends he needs more time away from the game before considering any return to management.
Pulis has been out of the game since leaving Middlesbrough over a year ago. He spent much of his coaching career in the Premier League with Stoke, Crystal Palace and West Brom.
Johnson's departure from Bristol City came after a nine-game winless run, stretching back to mid-February.
Their poor form sees them lying 12th in the Championship, nine points off the play-offs and 11 points clear of the relegation places, with five matches to go.
