Preston confirm Neil has "reiterated his commitment" to the club
Saturday 2 November 2019 22:21, UK
Preston have reported Stoke to the Football League for illegally approaching their manager Alex Neil.
Preston say they have refused Stoke permission to speak to Neil insisting there are "no circumstances" in which they would allow that to happen.
A statement on Preston's website said: "Stoke City Football Club have not been given permission to speak our contracted manager Alex Neil.
"As a result of the reports that were made this lunch time, there are now no circumstances under which Stoke City would be given permission to speak to Alex Neil.
"We have today reported Stoke City to the EFL for an illegal approach."
Neil signed a new three-year contract with Preston in April amid speculation linking him with West Brom.
A second Preston statement released later in the day read: "Following recent press speculation Preston North End Football Club can confirm that their manager Alex Neil has reiterated his commitment to the football club and to the contract that he signed earlier this year.
"Now that this speculation has been dismissed once and for all we can concentrate on what matters which is results on the field."
Stoke are yet to comment on the matter.
The Potters are searching for a new manager after sacking Nathan Jones on Friday.
