Hughes Plays Down Toon Links

Last updated : 11 January 2008 By Sam
The Rovers boss is amongst the bookmakers favourites to succeed Sam Allardyce, who left St James Park on Wednesday.

"There's always speculation when any big job comes up. I seem to be talked about in good terms and I'm appreciative of that but it's just recognition of the work myself and my staff do here," Hughes has said.

"I have not spoken to anyone from Newcastle, I spoke to my chairman last night and he has had no contact, and I don't think there will be any contact.

"I am in a very strong position here, I have a great relationship with the chairman and the board and that is really important.

"When managers have that relationship it's a big decision to forego that as the relationship is the key to whether we can be successful."