Sven linked to Benfica return

SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON'S future prospects may have taken another twist after it was reported he has been approached by Portuguese side Benfica.

The Swede is expected to be sacked as Manchester City manager at the end of the season with owner Thaksin Shinawatra reportedly unhappy at the team's recent form.

Benfica are remaining coy on the possibility of Eriksson returning to the club 16 years after the first of his two spells with the Lisbon giants.

Benfica spokesman Ricardo Maia said: "We will not comment on any suggestions of a future Benfica coach now. Whether someone is or is not in Manchester to try to persuade Eriksson, we have nothing to say about it."

Meanwhile, Luiz Felipe Scolari's spokesman has denied the Portugal coach has received an offer from City to replace Eriksson.