BLACKPOOL manager Steve McMahon has been strongly linked with part-time Australian side South Melbourne.

The Greek owners of the club are reported -- by Australian news agencies -- to have contacted Macca about the vacant manager's position at the club.

The side were involved in the first ever World Club Championship and played in a group with Manchester United, Necaxa and Vasco de Gama.

But chairman Karl Oyston has revealed that he has had no contact from the Australian outfit. He said: "Of course I have heard the speculation but they have not been in touch.

"I suspect this is the residue of talks that Steve may have had before he joined us.

"He is a contracted to us for a further year. We are happy with him and as far as I know he is happy here." The link has come shortly after McMahon revealed that it would be unlikely for him to stay at Bloomfield Road if plans to develop the ground aren't given the go ahead.

Speaking frankly after the Oldham match, the beleaguered boss said: "I think the ground is an important part of the club's future.

"It's not a ground you come to and marvel at and the new plans look very good.

"I can't really see my future here if the plans don't go through."