Cherries boss Eddie Howe was tonight remaining tight-lipped over speculation linking him with the vacant manager’s position at Crystal Palace.

The Championship strugglers are believed to have been given permission to speak to Howe after making a formal approach to the Dorset outfit earlier today.

It is understood the Cherries board reluctantly granted their request, although the Daily Echo has been unable to contact chairman Eddie Mitchell.

However, the Echo made contact with Howe this evening when he confirmed he would be taking training as normal at Canford School tomorrow.

Howe also said he would be in charge of the team for Saturday’s visit of League One rivals Plymouth Argyle, his 99th game as Cherries manager.

As has always been his stance, he politely declined to discuss the Crystal Palace link and said he would only be commenting on match-related issues at tomorrow’s weekly press conference.

The rumour mill went into overdrive earlier today when Howe was backed off the boards to become the new Eagles manager, with betting eventually suspended.

Steve Coppell, who has had four spells as Palace boss, has been linked with a return to the club as director of football.

Meanwhile, former owner Ron Noades, who once took Howe on work experience during his playing days with Cherries, is also understood to be on the verge of returning to the south London club.

Former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has also been linked with the post, as has Palace legend Dougie Freedman.