Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey has dismissed speculation linking manager Mick McCarthy with a return to the Republic of Ireland.

McCarthy has been linked with the vacant post following Steve Staunton's sacking but Moxey is adamant the former Irish boss is not leaving the Championship club.

"Having to respond daily to national newspaper speculation isn't helpful at a time when we're trying to focus on the job at hand," said Moxey.

"Naturally the manager is playing a leading role in trying to identify players to acquire during this transfer window, as well as preparing for games.

"Despite what's being written, it's business as usual at Molineux," he added.

Moxey also reacted angrily to reports that the club's chairman, Steve Morgan, has sounded out potential replacements should McCarthy leave.

It was suggested former Bolton manager Sammy Lee had been approached but Wolves deny this.

Last month McCarthy ruled himself out of becoming the new coach of South Korea and committed his future to Wolves.

He had been named on a two-man shortlist by KFA president Chung Mong-joon for the job along with Gerard Houllier, who is also in the running to succeed Staunton