"There's nothing in them," Pignata told au.fourfourtwo.com.

Phoenix are continuing their desperate search for a replacement for goal-machine Smeltz, who's banged in 18 goals since last season for the club.

Killen, 27, continues to be a fringe player at Celtic since joining last season from Hibs.

He's made 25 sub appearances and made the starting XI three times for one goal.

Killen, a Wellington born former Miramar Rangers player, turned out for New Zealand at the 2008 Olympics. He's scored 15 times for the All-Whites in 26 matches.