BOSS Eddie Howe insisted Nathan Ake would be going nowhere – but described as "a good sign" speculation linking him with Tottenham.

Howe confirmed no approach had been made for the Dutch international after reports this week suggested Spurs had been monitoring him.

"I think it's a compliment to Nathan and how he's played since he signed permanently for us," said Howe.

"He's been a model of consistency. He picked up all the player-of-the-year awards last season and has carried that form into this season. I’ve been really pleased with him.

"With any type of speculation that you are linked with, the clubs he's been mentioned with, it's a good sign. That doesn't mean we're about to lose him. He's a massive part of what we're doing."

Asked by Sky Sports where he thought the speculation had come from, Howe replied: "You might have a better idea than I do working in the industry. It's one of those things that happens. Maybe during a quiet spell of news, people will write things. From our perspective, there’s nothing in it.

"I think it's inevitable. The team is doing well and people will naturally highlight our players as potential players who can go on to play at a higher level, bigger clubs, et cetera.

"I see it as a compliment to the team. It certainly won't disrupt Nathan, knowing how level-headed he is and how conscientious he is towards his work.

"They are just words written on a piece of paper. For him, he’s such a good personality and it won't affect him in any way."