Inverness Brush Off John Hughes' Link To Dundee United

Inverness say they are focused on their Highland derby after brushing off speculation over the future of manager John Hughes.

Dundee United have been heavily linked with a move for Hughes, whose standing rocketed last season when he led Caley Thistle to the William Hill Scottish Cup and third place in the league.

The former Falkirk, Hibernian, Livingston and Hartlepool boss largely inherited the squad from Terry Butcher but he improved Caley Thistle's style of play and has been impressively steering them through an injury crisis ahead of Saturday's clash with Ross County.

Hughes said earlier this week that he was happy at Inverness but it is understood he could be tempted by an offer from Tannadice.

However, Caley Thistle chairman Kenny Cameron said in a statement: We can confirm that there has been no approach from any club regarding John Hughes.

Since joining the club in late 2013, when Terry Butcher moved on, John's leadership has been inspirational and we are all looking forward to continued success together this season and beyond.

Speculation like this can often be disruptive but thankfully at the club we are well used to handling this and everybody remains fully focused on the first local derby game of the season this weekend, which is sure to be an exciting affair.''

United chairman Stephen Thompson revealed on Tuesday that he had already spoken to some out-of-work bosses but did not rule out paying compensation.

Former Falkirk and Coventry boss Steven Pressley later ruled himself out, saying he wanted to find a new club in England.

But former Motherwell and Rangers boss Stuart McCall appears open to offers from Tayside, especially as Thompson revealed his club had the third highest playing budget in the Premiership.

McCall said: They have a good history, been in a couple of cup finals of late, and should be challenging for a European spot, so that might be one of interest.''

The Scotland assistant coach, who ruled out a return to Fir Park, added: But if I'm honest I'm really focused on a week tomorrow, Scotland playing Poland in one of our biggest games in recent years.''