LONDON: Sven-Goran Eriksson has played down speculation linking him with the manager's job at Chelsea and reaffirmed his "total commitment" to being England coach.

Eriksson met premier league Chelsea's new billionaire owner Roman Abramovich and agent Pini Zahavi socially last week after the Russian had taken over the west London club, prompting the media to question the future of manager Claudio Ranieri.

"I can confirm that last week I met with Pini Zahavi and the new owner of Chelsea Football Club - Roman Abramovich. The meeting took place at Mr Abramovich's property in London," Eriksson said in a statement issued on the FA's website.

"Pini Zahavi and I have been good friends for 20 years, since I was coaching Benfica. As Pini spends a lot of time in London, we regularly meet socially.

"Additionally, I have known Roman Abramovich for several months and during that time have also enjoyed socializing with him when he is in London.

"However, due to the intense media profile given to Mr Abramovich's involvement with Chelsea, I accept that this meeting may create unfortunate speculation," added Eriksson.

"Therefore, I would like to once again categorically re-affirm my total commitment to my role as England head coach.

"I am thoroughly enjoying the current European Championship qualifying campaign and I am looking forward to leading England to success in the future."

England are second in Euro 2004 qualifying Group Seven, two points behind leaders Turkey but with a game in hand. The group winners automatically go through to the finals in Portugal.

Agencies via Xinhua

(China Daily 07/10/2003 page8)