I'm not going anywhere says Monaco coach

Monaco coach Francesco Guidolin, seen here in February 2006, insisted he was staying at the French club amid persistent speculation that he is set to be replaced by Lille boss Claude Puel

Monaco coach Francesco Guidolin insisted he was staying at the French club amid persistent speculation that he is set to be replaced by Lille boss Claude Puel.

"I have no doubts at all about my future," the Italian told AFP. "I've got another year on my contract. The club has already shown their faith in me."

But Guidolin was cagey when asked about his plans for next season, refusing to answer questions about possible new recruits for the 2006/2007 campaign.

"Right now I prefer to talk about this season," he said. "I'm not obliged to talk to the press about next season, Guidolin added, visibly flustered.

Monaco president Michel Pastor announced plans to extend Guidolin's contract in January, but the coach indicated he wanted to delay signing the deal.

"At this moment, it's not about money, that's not my priority," said Guidolin. "I don't need to talk about it now. I can talk with them later.

"Maybe it's better to talk once the championship has ended. But I'm not thinking of leaving."

Guidolin has struggled to revive Monaco's fortunes since taking over from Didier Deschamps in 2005.

The principality are languishing in the bottom half of the table and have no chance of making the Champions League this season, two years after reaching the final.