Houston, who succeeded Levein as Dundee United boss, insists he has not discussed the prospect of a reunion with his mentor at Parkhead.

Despite having been appointed Scotland manager less than five months ago, Levein has been mentioned as a potential successor to Tony Mowbray at Celtic.

But his long-time lieutenant claims to know nothing of the link, which would include him as part of the 45-year-old's backroom team.

Houston said in the Evening Telegraph: "I think what you've got is people putting two and two together, but I can honestly say this is something Craig and I have never talked about.

"Right now, I am driving south to watch a player for next season and that tells you where my thoughts are.

"I am 100% focused on Dundee United and I don't want to make any comment on what is speculation."

The Scottish Football Association also declined to comment when contacted by Press Association Sport.

Meanwhile, Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has ruled himself out of the race to become Celtic's next manager.

But the former Hoops defender admits he may return to the club some time in the future.

"I'm happy at Wolves right now and looking forward to another season in the Premier League," he said in the Daily Express.

"The Celtic job is not one for me right now, but I couldn't rule it out in the future as I loved my time at the club."

McCarthy insisted Celtic would bounce back from one of the most miserable seasons in their recent history.

The 51-year-old attended last week's friendly defeat b7 AZ Alkmaar, which was watched by only a few thousand fans.

He said: "I was at the Alkmaar game and it was sad. It was just empty and there was no atmosphere.

"But Celtic will come back, don't worry about that."