Royle out of Leicester job race

Royle's last managerial job was at Ipswich Town

Joe Royle has withdrawn his interest in filling Leicester City's managerial vacancy because of "personal reasons".

The former Oldham, Everton, Manchester City and Ipswich manager met City owner Milan Mandaric last week after the exit of Gary Megson, who is now Bolton boss.

The move will increase speculation he could take over as Wigan boss.

"I decided towards the end of last week, for personal reasons, it would be best if I withdrew my interest," Royle told the Leicester Mercury.

Royle had been interviewed for the position, along with Peter Reid and Graeme Souness.

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Royle and Souness are both in the running to take over at Wigan, with a decision expected next week on the successor to Chris Hutchings.

Leicester have been without a full-time manager since October when Megson left the club after only six weeks at the helm.

Royle's last managerial appointment ended in May 2006 when he left Ipswich by mutual consent.

He had been in charge at Portman Road since October 2002.