Clark is not flattered by Leeds link

The 39-year-old, in his fourth year at the Galpharm Stadium, was targeted by Leicester earlier in the season but opted to stay at Town.

Clark’s rejection of a move to the Championship has, however, not prevented him joining Neil Warnock and Roberto Di Matteo as a favourite to succeed Simon Grayson at Elland Road.

As revealed in yesterday’s Yorkshire Post, United have no plans to approach anyone until after the weekend at the earliest due to wanting to sift through the applications.

Clark said: “I am aware of the speculation but, like last time (with Leicester), ultimately what it means is people outside the club think I am doing a good job.

“Not just the results, but my record in the transfer market. I can spot a player and make money for clubs. The squad I have got now, we would be looking at £10m if I put them on the market. Compared to the squad I inherited, which didn’t have any value, it shows what has been done here. The corporate side of the club is going through the roof and that is down to how the team plays. I am not a bad manager really, that is why people are interested.”

Clark made a point of stressing during his weekly press call yesterday that there had been no approach from Leeds before adding: “Until I am told otherwise, I am the manager of Huddersfield Town. I don’t find it flattering as it is something I have been used to since a boy. When I was 14, I was captain of England Schoolboys and Newcastle turned down a £250,000 bid for me from Liverpool. I have talked about something similar with regards the players in the past (during the transfer window). If my name was not being bandied about then I would be under pressure because it would mean I am not doing my job.”

Huddersfield have made a point of not discussing any speculation concerning their manager publicly whenever his name has been linked with a move away, instead preferring to wait until an approach is made before making any comment.

Asked if he had spoken to chairman Dean Hoyle since talk of Leeds began, Clark said: “No, I haven’t spoken to him. I can’t keep coming out and making statements. Everyone knows what I think about the club. If I keep making statements, where will it all end?”