Wolverhampton Wanderers have been rebuffed in their bid to sign Newcastle United midfielder Alan O'Brien on loan.
In a statement made to his club's website, United manager Glenn Roeder warned his Molineux counterpart, Mick McCarthy, to forget about trying to borrow the 21-year-old.
Newcastle have already rejected one approach from McCarthy this season and will hope that yesterday's statement ends interest from the Championship side, despite reports suggesting Roeder may change his mind.
Roeder said: "I cannot afford to let any of our young players move out on loan, even though some of the young lads would benefit from regular games. We are competing on four fronts this season, and we have a few injuries at the moment.
"It is no secret that we do not have the biggest squad, and I do not feel I can let any of my players leave at this moment in time."
Dubliner O'Brien is away o n international duty with t h e Republic of Ireland as they prepare for their Euro 2008 qualifying group encounters against Cyprus and the Czech Republic.
He was used as a substitute in the 1-1 InterToto Cup draw with Lillestrom on July 15 but has yet to make another senior appearance this season.
Meanwhile, McCarthy is hoping that the enforced break will allow several of his play-ers to return to a semblance of fitness. Craig Davies, who injured his wrist in this week's friendly with Bristol City, had an X-ray and, with no break found, is expected to return to training soon. Leon Clarke is expected to recover from a twisted ankle.
Carl Cort could be back in training next week as he continues to do strength work following his hamstring problem.
Alan O'Brien is unable to be loaned because of Newcastle's injuries
