Fleming is more concerned with tomorrow's game against Waikato, and making the play-offs, than receiving plaudits.
"I would have preferred the award next month, after getting into the play-offs," he said.
"We all need to be absolutely focused if we are to continue this season's progress."
Fleming has guided Otago to three wins out of four since the mid-season break and deserves credit for that achievement.
"We need a win this weekend to cement our claim for a top-four position, and that is the team's priority."
"Hard work has been the basis of any success we achieved, and it's the team that supply the horsepower, not me.
"When we get the tempo correct and squeeze opposition teams, that's when we create chances and win matches."
As far as awards are concerned, Fleming prefers to talk about his young left back, Tristan Prattley, who has been named to the last two NZFC teams of the week.
"Young Tristan is doing well.
"He has been a consistent performer for us, and I'm pleased that he is getting some sort of national recognition."
Prattley has clearly benefited from playing alongside astute Otago captain and centreback Tim Horner, whose organisational skills have knitted Otago's back four into an effective unit.
The return of Jeff Campbell has been a boost for Waikato player-coach Che Bunce.
It is nearly six years since Waikato beat Otago in Dunedin, but since then, there have been four bruising draws that suggest tomorrow's game could be a physical contest.
Former Otago players Paul Stewart, Shaun Van Rooyen and Joe Simpkins, now playing for Waikato, will be welcomed back, and Fleming recognises their pedigree.
"Waikato has some very good players, so we are wary, and will have to switch on a top performance to get the points we want to have when we face Canterbury the week after.
"Our week off has given the squad a chance to lick their wounds.
"Robbie Deeley and Rhys Henderson are fully fit and back as possible starters.
"Only Dan Ede is out of contention with an ankle injury."
Experienced Otago midfielder Andy Coburn is also available again after being suspended.
Otago United's younger talent will play Manawatu in the first of the national youth league games at 10am.
The team is coached by Terry Phelan and Richard Murray.
Otago Utd v Waikato Utd
Carisbrook, tomorrow, 1pm
Otago United: James Waggett, Mike Abbot, Tristan Prattley, Dave Shaw, Mike Smith, Tom Sadd, Robbie Deeley, Stu Kelly, Ryan Faichnie, Dave Dugdale, Andy Coburn, James Reichwin, Brian Brown, Tom Connor, Morgan Day, Tim Horner, Nathan Knox, Ben Light, Rhys Henderson, Harley Rodeka.
Waikato United: Alex Carr, Che Bunce, Richard Beard, Charlie Hoyle, Joey Simpkins, Jason Chewins, David Samson, Mike Gwyther, Shaun van Rooyen, Paul Stewart, Mark Jones, Jeff Campbell, Alex Barlow, Maurie Wasi, Scott Robinson.
