Season 2001-2002

Walter Smith: unphased by the recurring rumours about his tenure at Goodison

Dave Jones has rejected suggestions that he is on the verge of becoing the next Everton manager, insisting that he is committed to completing the job he set out to do at Wolves, and that is to return the Midlands club to the top flight.

With rumours escalating once more that Walter Smith could soon be forced out at Goodison Park, ex-Everton player Jones is being touted as his successor. However, with Wolves making a sustained push for promotion to the Premiership, the former Southampton bossis not looking to leave Molineux any time soon, eager as he is to repay the faith the club had in him following his legal travails.

Jones said of the speculation: "Some people know I'm an Evertonian and are making something out of nothing.

"I find the speculation distasteful. I count Walter as a friend and it's embarrassing for both of us.

"I'm not behind the speculation and don't even want to think about it. I am not going to Everton."

With Everton embroiled in yet another relegation struggle, Smith's position is quickly becoming the media's favourite for most likely managerial casualty. Rumours this week suggested that he would have left to take up the reins at Kilmarnock in his native Scotland had Everton lost their FA Cup 5th Round replay at Crewe.

However, the Blues manager scoffed at the rumours surrounding Dave Jones.

More on this story from: The Echo

by Lyndon Lloyd