By David McDaid

Dundee United manager Peter Houston says his players remain unaffected by transfer speculation surrounding them.

David Goodwillie, Garry Kenneth and Craig Conway have all been the subject of transfer bid stories this week.

"I watch them every day in training and they've not been unsettled at all," Houston told BBC Scotland.

"None of the players has chapped my door asking what's going on. That's because nothing's happened, so there's nothing to talk about."

Newspaper reports had suggested that Rangers were interested in striker Goodwillie and midfielder Conway, who has also been linked with Middlesbrough, while Birmingham City had enquired about a £1m move for defender Kenneth.

But Houston maintains there has been no contact from any club and that the players heads are not being turned.

Let me tell you 100% - nobody has approached us for any of our players Peter Houston

"All the players are focussed on future matches and a massive cup final at the end of the season," he said.

"When you're successful, it's natural that other big teams will look at your players.

"It's happened to us in the past when we lost players like Barry Robson, Willo Flood and Lukasz Zaluska.

"But let me tell you 100% - nobody has approached us for any of our players."

Celtic visit Tannadice on Sunday with Houston's men already having guaranteed themselves Europa League football for next season.

One more point from their remaining four games would clinch third spot in the league, meaning they would play one less qualifier.

And, although they are only seven points off Celtic's second place, Houston is playing down his side's chances of achieving that feat.

"It's a huge match, but even if we beat Celtic on Sunday, they would have to lose two games when you take into account their goal difference," he said.

"So I'm more thinking of securing third as we can take care of that ourselves.

"We look forward to the game - it'll be tough - but we don't fear anyone at home."

Houston's opposite number on Sunday, Neil Lennon, has taken Celtic to their first run of four successive league wins this season.

And the United boss is full of admiration for the interim Celtic manager, who took over when Tony Mowbray was sacked in March.

"Neil's done a fantastic job," said Houston. "He's had to pick up the team after a horrendous defeat by Ross County.

"The way he's gone about his business, he's worked hard with the team.

"In the last two performances especially I've watched them and the players have shown a great determination and spirit for him.

"So all credit to him and their players for picking it up again."

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