The Portuguese's position at Stamford Bridge has come under intense scrutiny this season amidst reports he has fallen out with the English Premiership champions' Russian owner Roman Abramovich.

Lippi, who led Italy to World Cup glory in Germany last year but is currently without a job, became the latest high-profile candidate to be linked with the Chelsea hotseat last weekend. But a statement issued by the London club on Thursday stressed Mourinho would see out his Stamford Bridge contract.

"Following further media speculation regarding the position of Chelsea Football Club manager and comments allegedly attributed to Marcello Lippi, the club would like to make clear that no list of candidates has been drawn up to replace Jose Mourinho," the statement said.

It added: "Nobody from Chelsea FC has spoken to Mr Lippi or his representatives or indeed anyone regarding the manager's job.

"As previously stated, Jose Mourinho has a contract until 2010, he has the support of everybody at Chelsea and he has said he wants to stay for the time of his contract."

Chelsea are currently second in the table, six points behind leaders Manchester United, ahead of Saturday's match away to London rivals Charlton.