The Portuguese, who moved to London last year and guided the Blues to their first top flight title in 50 years, told Time Out magazine: "At the moment it's for Sven, who is a top professional who also does it with a bit of England in his heart."

"It's true that a part of me feels like an Englishman now," he added, "and if I stay here for the next five years - the length of my contract - I will feel even more English."

A spokesman for Mourinho explained more: "Jose loves living in England. However, any suggestion that he would change his nationality is totally wrong and misleading.

"He is a passionate Portuguese citizen and has made it very clear that one day he would like to manage the Portuguese national team."

He added: "He also totally supports Sven-Goran Eriksson as England manager.''