Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock has responded to rumours linking the club with Ayr United attacker Luke McCowan ahead of the January transfer window.

Football Insider reported that the Bluebirds were one of a number of club's chasing the 21-year-old although Warnock remained ellusive when asked further questions during his pre-match press conference on Friday morning.

"Not that I’m aware of," he said when asked if there was interest, reported Wales Online.

"I’m sure people are looking at certain players around the club, recruitment etc., but it’s not a name I’ve heard of."

With five goals and four assists to his name already this season it is easy to see why he is causing a stir, with Derby County also reportedly keeping an eye on him ahead of January.

This weekend sees Cardiff welcome Bristol City to South Wales for the first instalment of the Severnside Derby this season.

The Robins currently sit in sixth place with 15 games played, eight places ahead of Warnock's side, although a win for the Bluebirds will see them rise to within a point of their rivals.

The verdict

It is hard to tell whether Warnock is being truthful here or not but it is interesting that he did not completely dismiss the rumour.

Whether it is McCowan or not, however, you have to expect that the attacking midfield/creative hub is an area that he will be desperate to build on in January.

Whilst they are not embarassing themselves in front of goal, they are a long way from being the attacking unit necessary to win promotion this season, especially whilst they continue to ship so many at the other end.