Coleen McLoughlin axed by Asda

Coleen McLoughlin has been axed by Asda as the face of its George fashion range.

The girlfriend of footballer Wayne Rooney will reportedly be replaced by French model Carla Bruni.

According to The Sun, Asda was impressed by Bruni during her recent visit to the UK with her husband President Nicolas Sarkozy.

A spokesperson said: "Among the names being considered is Carla Bruni. She’s very attractive and a highly stylish person. We feel she would fit in very well with the George look."

Speaking about McLoughlin's departure, brand director Fiona Lambert said: "Coleen has been a fantastic ambassador for us, but we want to show that our core fashions are for everyone.

"We have been chasing younger customers rather than people who shop at Asda week-in, week-out - namely mums and dads who buy their clothing during the weekly shopping trip."