Jim Mallinder focused on Northampton Saints

Jim Mallinder has insisted that he is focused on his job with Northampton Saints, despite recent speculation linking him with the England manager's job.

The 45-year-old is seen by many as an ideal replacement for Martin Johnson, who stepped down from the position earlier this week.

However, Mallinder has claimed that his attentions this week have been on his side's Heineken Cup tie against Scarlets this evening.

When asked by Sky Sports News how hard it had been to prepare his side for their European fixture, Mallinder replied: "Not at all.

"This is a massive game for us and we've had massive focus on doing our best.

"We know that if we do our best we have a good chance of winning."

Mallinder took over at Franklin's Gardens in 2007.