Derby County head coach Steve McClaren is no longer flattered by being linked with top management roles. "I'm past all that," said McClaren, who has been tipped to succeed Alan Pardew as Newcastle manager. "I used to [be flattered] when I was younger."
"I realise it is part of the game, but it's pure speculation," McClaren added.
"Derby are doing well, playing good football, are near the top of the Championship and challenging again."
The Rams are currently third in the table following back-to-back wins over Birmingham City and Leeds United.
McClaren told BBC Radio Derby: "We have a job to do here and are in a very good position. I believe we will be challenging for a place in the Premier League. That is my job and that is what I am concentrating on.
"Over the Christmas period we have got back to where we should be after a tough week against Middlesbrough, Chelsea and Norwich."
