Houston slams Goodwillie rumours

Houston: Is keeping Goodwillie updated about developments with interested parties

Dundee United boss Peter Houston has rubbished claims sought-after striker David Goodwillie could hand in a transfer request.

The 22-year-old striker has attracted a bid from Rangers while Cardiff and Blackpool are also interested in acquiring his services.

United turned down an offer of more than £1million from Rangers on Thursday and talks are ongoing with Goodwillie's other suitors.

There has since been speculation the Scotland international, who is under contract until 2013, could now ask for a transfer.

But Houston has spent plenty of time around Goodwillie during the club's pre-season trip to Ireland and is confident he is not looking to leave Tannadice.

Not affected

"I've heard these rumours about David and they are absolute nonsense," he told the Daily Record.

"I sat with David and the rest of the boys in our hotel. David's banter was great, as it always is. Everything that's going on is not affecting him one bit, he's not that type of boy.

"For anyone to suggest he will put a transfer request in is ridiculous.

"I have spoken to David one-to-one, he trusts me and knows I am telling him everything.

"One thing that has not happened in our discussions is him saying he wants a transfer. It's total rubbish."