United block Blackpool approach

Dundee United have confirmed that they have denied Blackpool permission to speak to manager Jackie McNamara.

Barry Ferguson has been in caretaker charge since the departure of Paul Ince earlier this year as the Bloomfield Road club narrowly avoided relegation to League 1.

McNamara told the club website: “While flattered at the interest shown, I am very happy at Dundee United and wish to continue the job and build upon the foundations laid down over the last 18 months or so.

“I view the approach as a positive endorsement of all the hard work undertaken by everyone at the club in that period and have no plans to leave. All of my focus is on the forthcoming William Hill Scottish Cup final and preparations for the new season ahead.”