Ian Atkins has laughed off reports linking him with Oxford United's third division rivals Bristol Rovers.

The Pirates have parted company with former Oxford player and assistant boss Ray Graydon, and the Daily Mirror yesterday claimed that Rovers chairman Geoff Dunford has targeted Atkins, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Atkins says he knows Dunford, but for the moment he is concentrating on getting Oxford United promotion, and sources in the West Country say a move for the United manager is unlikely.

However, while he only has four months left on his contract, Atkins will continually be linked with other clubs who may tap him up to join in the summer.

Earlier in the season, South- end were refused permission to speak to Atkins by United chairman Firoz Kassam, while last week, the Daily Star claimed Atkins was being lined up to take over at first division Coventry City next season, but that too has been denied.

Kassam said: "We have had no contact from Geoff Dunford or the club whatsoever.

"As far as I am concerned, Ian is still under contract here and there should not have been any discussions about him going elsewhere."

Meanwhile, the U's boss says he will play almost his entire first team in the private friendly at Derby County's training ground tomorrow.