Dundee manager Tony Docherty unaware of Luke McCowan bids

Tony Docherty insists speculation surrounding Dundee captain Luke McCowan is simply part and parcel of football.

The 26-year-old midfielder, who scored a penalty in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Dundee United at Tannadice, has been linked with William Hill Premiership rivals Hibernian and English League One side Bolton, both of whom have reportedly had bids turned down.

Asked about bids for McCowan, Dens Park boss Docherty said: “Not to date, nothing that has been brought to my attention, they might have been to the club but there has been nothing brought to my attention.

“Listen, Luke McCowan is our player and he is a brilliant boy.

“I have a really special relationship with Luke so as happens in this industry when you are doing well – and he had a brilliant season along with a lot of other players I have to say – of course you are going to attract suitors, but at the moment it is speculation.

“Luke is a Dundee player, he is my captain and he does that every day and he is continuing to do that and until I am told different he will be my player and that relationship.

“There is so much speculation. I get eight or nine names thrown at me every day but until anything is factual I won’t get involved in it, and that is transfers in and out.

“That’s what happens in this industry, there is loads of rumour and speculation. I am quite objective. I think you deal with fact.”