SHEVCHENKO DISPELS REAL RUMOUR

It is not the first time that Shevchenko has been linked with a move away from Milan, and as one of the best strikers in the world he has grown used to the speculation.

"I am flattered that people have such a high opinion of me," he told Sport Express. "But I am currently a Milan player and I would like to win many trophies for this club.

"I am indebted to Milan for the trust they have invested in me.

"If [Real Madrid president] Florentine Perez wants to buy Shevchenko then he should talk to the Milan management.

"Nobody has made any offers to me and I must reiterate that I see no reason why I would decide to leave Milan."

Despite his influence, Shevchenko could not stop his side being knocked out of World Cup qualification in a two legged play off against Germany.

"I was very disappointed by the loss," added the prolific marksman. "I hoped to win, which would have been an historic achievement for our nation.

"But now I should put this behind me. I have plenty of time ahead of me to win big with both the national side and my club.

"I prefer not to think about things like winning the Golden Ball, and I have said before that the winner should be Raul.

"He has performed to the highest level for five or six years."