Claudio Ranieri has dismissed reports linking him to the Watford management position as little more than hearsay.

The Italian, who led Leicester City to the most miraculous of Premier League titles in 2016, has been out of work since being sacked by the Foxes in February.

He is among a number of names in contention to take over from Walter Mazzarri but while he is keen to get back to work, he has moved to distance himself from the Vicarage Road hot seat.

He described links with Watford as “just rumours” when quizzed on the subject and is keeping his options open.

“I’m very stimulated to make another great season,” Ranieri said. “I feel as well a European coach. Italy, Spain, France, England for me is ok”

The former Chelsea, Inter Milan and Juventus manager is among the favourites to take over at Crystal Palace after Sam Allardyce’s resignation.

Watford meanwhile are still assessing their options, with Marco Silva their preferred target after he impressed in almost keeping Hull City in the Premier League.

The 39-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Porto and is also high on Palace’s wish list.