Bolton manager Sam Allardyce did consider Peter Reid as his number two but decided against bringing his pal to the Reebok.
Allardyce moved to recruit Sammy Lee even though the former Sunderland chief has been out of work since leaving Coventry last season and is keen to return to football.
Allardyce believes that Reid still has a lot to offer as a manager and that at this moment, the role of assistant would not suit his qualities.
''Peter's obviously somebody who came into my thoughts,'' Allardyce told Sky Sports News.
''But I can see Peter has got a lot to offer as a manager and I think he still sees himself as a manager and not as an assistant or coach.
''I think there is a massive difference between assistant manager, coach and manager.
''I still think Peter at his tender young age is a manager first and foremost and not an assistant or coach.''