DES Buckingham’s focus remains solely on guiding Oxford United in Sky Bet Championship next season, and he was not approached for the Wales job, the Oxford Mail understands.

United’s head coach saw his name linked with Wales on Monday afternoon, having become the favourite among many bookmakers to replace Rob Page.

However, it’s understood that Buckingham, who is with the U’s at their pre-season training camp in Spain, did not apply for the Wales role and that there was no approach.

Buckingham’s attention remains firmly on the U’s as they embark on their first season in the second tier of English football for 25 years.

READ ALSO: U’s ramping up pre-season preparations with midweek friendly on horizon

Former Newcastle United, Liverpool and Manchester City forward Craig Bellamy has now been announced as Wales head coach until 2028.

Bellamy, who was previously the assistant manager at Championship side Burnley, told the Football Association of Wales website: “It’s an incredible honour for me to be given the opportunity to lead my country and it’s the proudest moment of my career.

“It was always my ultimate dream to become the Cymru head coach and I am ready for the challenge.

“I will give my full commitment to develop this team and I am passionate to bring continued success into Welsh football. I can’t wait to get started with our Nations League games in September.”

Page was sacked as Wales manager almost halfway through a four-year contract that he signed in September 2022.

Wales missed out on qualification for Euro 2024, after losing to Poland on penalties in the play-offs.

June friendlies saw Wales held to a goalless draw with Gibraltar, while also suffering a 4-0 thrashing against Slovakia, prior to Page’s sacking.