Eriksson denies interest in Chelsea role

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has denied that he has any interest in taking over as manager at Chelsea.

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has denied that he has any interest in taking over as manager at Chelsea.

Eriksson recently met with new Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and agent Pini Zahavi in London but the Swede insists the reason was purely a social one.

Eriksson told www.theFA.com: "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.

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

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"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."

Eriksson revealed that he has been friends with both Abramovich and Zahavi, the Israeli agent who played a key role in the Russian billionaire's Stamford Bridge takeover, for some time.

He added: "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 socialising with him when he is in London."