CAIRO: Manuel Jose is flattered by Portugal s link but insisted he is committed to Ahly, the Egyptian champions said on Sunday.

Reports in Jose s homeland suggested that the former Sporting Lisbon manager is in line to take over Portugal’s national team.

Portugal, who have booked their place in EURO 2008 quarter-finals with one match to spare, is seeking to find a replacement for Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Brazilian manager Scolari agreed to take charge of Premiership runners-up Chelsea next season.

Jose, who is regarded as the most successful coach in Ahly s history after guiding the club to a host of local and continental trophies, stressed his commitment to the Red Devils.

In a phone call with assistant coach Hossam Al-Badri, Jose said he intends to see out his contract, Ahly said in a statement on their official website.

Jose is pleased to have been linked with Portugal s job, but he insisted that his commitment to Ahly is out of question.

The coach asked Al-Badri to clarify his stance that he is more than happy to remain with Ahly.

The 62-year-old coach is currently spending his annual vacation in Portugal.