Gary Mackay-Steven insists that what could have proved to be an unwelcome distraction has instead given everyone at Dundee United a big boost.
The club’s preparations for the last league game of the season and next week’s eagerly-anticipated William Hill Scottish Cup final against St Johnstone were disrupted on Thursday by unwanted advances from Blackpool for manager Jackie McNamara.
The Tangerines moved swiftly to deny the Seasiders permission to speak to their young boss with the 40-year-old himself insisting: “I am very happy at Dundee United and wish to continue the job and build upon the foundations laid down over the last 18 months.”
That declaration was music to the ears of “GMS” and the rest of the squad.
Mackay-Steven said: “It’s a great boost for everyone. He’s come in and been a breath of fresh air. He’s been unbelievable with all the boys from day one.
“We all took to him straight away so we’re very happy that he’s staying. He’s got an attacking philosophy which lets the players really express themselves.
“I’ve been delighted to work with him this season and hopefully that can continue into the future. If anyone is linked with another job it’s always a good thing.
“It shows he’s doing something right.
“He has laid great foundations here. Even in the short spell he’s been here, he’s brought young players through who are blossoming under him.
Mackay-Steven added: “We’re playing really good football. I think when he gets more experience himself he’s destined for the top in a managerial sense.
“If you speak to all the other boys, they will tell you his managerial skills are good. He will speak to you and take you aside. On the training ground, he doesn’t leave anything to chance.
“He’s maybe a bit more laid-back than previous managers. That’s what the boys prefer.
“The manager, Simon Donnelly, and Darren Jackson are all like that and have played the game before going into management, which helps greatly.
“He’s still young and his chance will come. He has made the transition from player to manager.
“I think he’ll take this club forward a lot more. He’s shown he’s really happy here.
“I think this is just the start of it. He’s got a lot more work to do here in terms of the success he wants to bring to the club.
“He’s had a great first season-and-a-half and he can bring a lot more success to this club. As players, we all want him to stay.
“This first approach won’t be the last, but we’re just happy to have him and delighted he’s shown this commitment.”
While United will try to focus on the game at Celtic Park, Mackay-Steven admitted it will be difficult not to have one eye on next week’s Scottish Cup final at the same venue.
However, he insists that the United squad are determined to finish the league campaign on a high and spoil the Hoops’ title-winning party.
Mackay-Steven added: “Obviously you might have the cup final on your mind. But Celtic at Parkhead is a game everyone looks forward to all season.
“Our focus is definitely on Celtic and giving a great account of ourselves. It will be a tough game but we want to win the match.
“We might have more thoughts about going back to Parkhead for the final after Sunday. But the only thing we will be worried about come Sunday is picking up three points against Celtic.
“You can’t get any better than beating Celtic at Parkhead. It’s the game I look forward to most on the calendar.
“Parkhead is a big pitch which suits my game. The atmosphere is unbelievable. It should be a great occasion.”