Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has denied conspiring with major shareholder Dermot Desmond to ensure the Irishman succeeds Sir Alex Ferguson as coach of Manchester United.

Desmond has close links with Ferguson and there has been speculation that Ferguson would become chairman of the club with O’Neill appointed manager.

However, O’Neill has spoken out about the rumours, claiming he has no knowledge of any such moves.

He said: ‘I can honestly tell you that I have never discussed any kind of business with Dermot other than that concerning Celtic Football Club.

‘I know nothing about his interests with the club and I have no wish to know. The truth is this here: it doesn’t concern me.’