'I don't know where it came from!' - Wolves boss Gary O'Neil rubbishes links with Manchester United although he insists it is an 'honour' to be linked with Red Devils

ESPN claimed the Red Devils wanted to talk to the former Bournemouth boss about a coaching role at the club as they plan to make changes under minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. O'Neil said this was the first he had heard of it, that he was happy at Wolves, but he was flattered by the links.

The 40-year-old said of the reports: "I don't know where it came from."

He added: "Growing up, Liverpool and Manchester United always felt special. It's an honour to be linked even if there's no truth in it. I love it here [at Wolves]. I'm a head coach, I'm always going to be a head coach. I'm really enjoying my time at Wolves. I was only made aware of it [the links] by the media team to prepare for your questions."

Wolves were one of the favourites to go down this season after selling some of their best players, including Ruben Neves, to comply with profit and sustainability rules; but O'Neil has done remarkably well since taking over last summer. They are ninth in the Premier League, have a shot at qualifying for Europe, and due to Erik ten Hag's uncertain future at United, links from bigger clubs are understandable. However, it seems O'Neil is going nowhere for now.

O'Neil's Wolves travel to Midlands rivals Aston Villa early on Saturday evening, whereas Ten Hag's United are being hosted by lowly Brentford later on that night as the Premier League returns following the conclusion of the international break.