Claudio Ranieri yesterday dismissed talk of a flirtation with Roma and confirmed his desire to remain at Chelsea amid mounting speculation that his employers have come to a similar conclusion.
Following Tuesday's Champions League success over Arsenal, the Italian's name has been linked with some of Europe's most prestigious clubs, including that of his native city. However, yesterday he sounded ever more optimistic than ever of starting next season at Chelsea.
"I want to stay here," he said. "I've put all of myself in to this idea and now it's good. Why must I change? Me and the club are together - that it is important for me - and we have a very, very good relationship."
Talks between Ranieri's agent Jon Smith and Chelsea's chief executive Peter Kenyon took place on Thursday. Ranieri dismissed suggestions he had sought guarantees that he would keep his job should Chelsea win the Premiership or Champions League.
"I didn't ask about assurances," said Ranieri. "We have spoken about a lot of things. We have had very good meetings and very soon we will know everything."
