Caley Thistle chairman Kenny Cameron is determined to keep hold of manager John Hughes after confirming no approach has been made by Dundee United for his services.
Reports yesterday suggested Hughes was a target for Inverness’ Premiership rivals, who are searching for a new manager after sacking Jackie McNamara in the wake of United’s 2-1 defeat by St Johnstone on Saturday.
The result left the Tayside side three points adrift in second-bottom place in the table, just two points above bottom-placed Partick Thistle.
United chairman Stephen Thompson is believed to be an admirer of the job Hughes has done at Caledonian Stadium, with the 51-year-old guiding Inverness to the Scottish Cup and third place in the Premiership in his first full season in charge last year.
Caley Jags chairman Cameron says no contact has been made and he is determined not to let speculation affect the team’s preparation for Saturday’s Highland derby against Ross County at Victoria Park.
Cameron said: “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.
“We have just had our best season in the club’s short history and everybody remains focused on what can still be achieved.
“Given the success the club has had since joining the league in 1994, media attention surrounding our players and management teams is something we are used to but, obviously, do not welcome.
“Speculation like this can often be disruptive but, thankfully, at the club we are well used to handling this and every remains fully focused on the first local derby game of the season this weekend which is sure to be an exciting affair.
“We have a large travelling support heading over to Dingwall to cheer the manager and lads on this Saturday and getting a good result for them remains our number one priority.”
Earlier this week, Hughes played down links to the Tannadice position, confirming he is content with his current job.
Hughes said: “Being linked with other jobs is flattering but I’m happy where I am.
“I keep getting told every manager that leaves Inverness goes down the way and struggles to maintain the standards they set here.
“So I’ll take that lesson and just get my head down and get on with my work.”