JAMES Beattie has distanced himself from the Oxford United job after becoming the favourite with bookmakers.

The 35-year-old has steered minnows Accrington Stanley away from the Sky Bet League Two relegation zone so far in his first season as a manager.

Beattie, who does not yet have a UEFA B licence, which is required to manage in the division, has topped the betting markets for several days.

But when questioned about the rumours yesterday, the former Everton and England striker reiterated his commitment to Stanley.

He said: “There’s been no official approach from anybody. I’ve spoken to the boys. My commitment is to them and it has been from day one.”.

NEXT OXFORD BOSS Best odds.

2-1 James Beattie, 7-2 Mickey Lewis, 12-1 Kevin Keen, 14-1 Robbie Fowler, 16-1 Dave Penney, Martin Allen, 25-1 others.