Kent Cricket Club have played down increasing speculation linking coach Graham Ford with the England job as replacement for under-pressure Peter Moores following the breakdown in his relationship with skipper Kevin Pietersen.

Ford, 48, is one of several people being tipped to take over, with at least one bookies installing him as favourite, having worked with Pietersen in his early career at Natal.

Chief Executive Paul Millman said: “It’s not the first time Graham has been linked with an international role.

"We know he is an incredibly able coach and it’s no surprise that his name has been mentioned. He has done a fantastic job for us. We have received no approach from the ECB.”

Ford who is at home in Durban has turned down previous overtures from both India and New Zealand and has a long-term contract with Kent. He is due back to prepare for the new season in March.

Former Australian test star Tom Moody, South African coach Mickey Arthur and former England spinner, now selector Ashley Giles are others being touted as possibles to take over

The England squad is due to leave for the tour of the West Indies on January 21.