Rafael Benitez agent denies approach from Turkey

Pa
Tuesday 24 May 2011 06:46 EDT
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Benitez has been linked with the Chelsea job himself
Benitez has been linked with the Chelsea job himself (GETTY IMAGES)

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The agent of Rafael Benitez has denied reports his client has held talks with Turkey about taking over the national team from coach Guus Hiddink.

Hiddink, 64, is reportedly Chelsea's main candidate to replace Carlo Ancelotti, who was sacked on Sunday.

The Dutch coach had a five-month interim spell at Chelsea back in 2009 during which he led the London outfit to FA Cup glory.

However, Hiddink is under contract with the Turkish Football Federation until the end of the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

When asked if former Liverpool manager Benitez had been approached by Turkey, his agent Manuel Garcia Quilon said to Press Association Sport: "Absolutely not.

"He has not been approached by Turkey and hence, he has not held talks regarding coaching the national team."

Benitez has been out of work since being dismissed by Inter Milan in December, just six months after joining the Serie A giants.

The Spaniard is currently reviewing several offers to return to coaching.

"He has received some offers from several clubs," Quilon said. "His priority is to remain in England."

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