Eriksson makes new Chelsea denial

Eriksson has made a big impact at Man City since taking over in July

Sven-Goran Eriksson says it was pure coincidence he ended up sitting near to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich for Sunday's game at Old Trafford.

The Manchester City boss, who has been linked with the Chelsea job, says he did not know where he would be located when he was offered a ticket.

"I had to sit where they told me to sit," the Swede told Radio 5live.

"Most football people in the world wanted to see that game. It has nothing to do with Abramovich or Chelsea."

News conference: Man City boss Sven Goran Eriksson

The 59-year-old Eriksson was courted by the Blues in 2003 but rejected the chance to move to Stamford Bridge in order to remain as England boss.

Now the former Roma, Fiorentina, Benfica, Sampdoria and Lazio coach has been linked with the club again despite Avram Grant's appointment as Jose Mourinho's successor.

Explaining his presence at Old Trafford, Eriksson added: "If I have a free Sunday afternoon and it's Manchester United-Chelsea, it should almost be criminal in my job not to go to see that match. Of course I wanted to see it."

He also said he was content at City, whom he has guided to second in the Premier League table after taking over in July.

"I have a three-year contract here," he said. "No, I don't know anything about the situation in Chelsea."