OWEN Coyle has lifted the lid on two “near misses” in the transfer market during his time with Wanderers.

The Glaswegian, sacked last week after nearly three years in charge, revealed he came close to signing Manchester United starlet Nick Powell while he was playing for Crewe.

And Coyle also uncovered how close he came to capturing Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha in January.

“I know Wilfried Zaha is going to be some player, so I offered Palace £3million for him,” he said.

“Palace wanted about £5m – and I think it would be in excess of that now because of how well he has progressed.

“We also made a bid for Nick Powell at Crewe – we offered £500,000 and they wanted £1m or so. It didn’t get done and he’s gone on to Manchester United.

“It was that kind of year but that’s why you love the game – with all its highs and lows.”