Benfica quiet over Sven link

Portuguese delegation seen in Manchester

Last updated: 7th May 2008

Sven-Goran Eriksson Manchester City manager

Eriksson: Speculation

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Benfica have refused to comment on speculation linking Sven Goran Eriksson with a return to the Portuguese giants.

The Manchester City manager's position has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks, with chairman Thaksin Shinawatra reported to be planning to part company with the Swede at the end of the season.

A delegation from Benfica including president Luis Felipe Vieira and captain Rui Costa, the club's future sporting director, were filmed by Portuguese broadcaster SIC in a hotel in Manchester.

The former England boss has been linked with the club since Antonio Camacho quit after declaring himself "unable to motivate the squad".

Nothing to say

Benfica spokesman Ricardo Maia said: "We will not comment on any suggestions of a future Benfica coach now.

"Whether someone is or is not in Manchester to try to persuade Eriksson, we have nothing to say about it."

The former England manager's future at Eastlands has been the subject of much speculation, with Shinawatra expected to relieve Eriksson of his duties at the end of the current campaign and Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari widely tipped as a successor.

Benfica risk missing out on a Champions League spot for next season after a disappointing season.

They are fourth in the SuperLiga, three points behind rivals Sporting.