French World Cup winner Zidane was linked with a shock move to Loftus Road last weekend, and the speculation has predictably resurfaced following Luigi de Canio's departure from the club on Thursday.

But Ecclestone, who is bankrolling Rangers' expected push for promotion to the Premier League next season, has scotched rumours Zidane is on his way - despite admitting he has known for six months De Canio would be leaving.

"I can say 100 per cent categorically 'no' to stories that we have spoken to Zidane," Ecclestone told The Times.

"We have known for six months that the coach would be leaving and we have to draw up the shortlist, but Zidane's name is not on it."

The club statement revealing De Canio's departure by mutual consent added that a successor will be named "in due course".