McInnes silent on United talk

Derek McInnes refused to be drawn on the prospect of replacing Craig Levein at Dundee United.

The St Johnstone manager, a former Tannadice captain, was immediately installed as favourite for the post by one bookmaker after the Scottish Football Association revealed that Levein had agreed a two-and-a-half-year deal to become Scotland manager.

Asked by Press Association Sport about being linked with the Tannadice job, McInnes refused to comment.

United have begun their search for Levein's successor but until a permanent replacement is appointed, Peter Houston will act as caretaker manager, assisted by Gary Kirk.

McInnes, who played in the United midfield between 2003 and 2006, is still highly regarded at the Tayside club but it is thought the compensation package St Johnstone would probably demand from United may go against him.

Other contenders include John McGlynn, Michael O'Neill, Jimmy Calderwood and former United boss Paul Sturrock.