Derby manager Paul Jewell has rubbished speculation linking him with a move to Blackburn as Mark Hughes prepares to leave Ewood Park.Manchester City have been granted permission to hold discussions with Hughes with a view to the Welshman succeeding Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Chelsea are also understood to be keen on Hughes and the former Manchester United striker is reportedly on the Blues' shortlist of replacements for Avram Grant.

Hughes' expected Ewood Park exit has seen speculation begin over possible new Blackburn bosses and Jewell - who took over at Pride Park in November last year - has been mentioned among the possible candidates.

However, Jewell has committed his long-term future to Derby by telling the club's official website: "I want to move as quickly as possible to commit to Derby.

"This is a huge club and I have got a massive job to do here."

Derby have already signed the likes of Paul Connolly, Jordan Stewart, Paul Green, Kris Commons and Nathan Ellington, and Jewell insists his plans remain with the Rams.

"Although I can't stress enough that this is only media speculation, I think it is important to make my intentions clear so that there are no distractions," added Jewell.

"We are having a fantastic summer in the transfer market so far with six new signings and there are more in the pipeline.

"My only focus is Derby County."

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