I am no longer a part of this relationship

Ulrika Jonsson

Jonsson said the relationship was now over and denied issuing Eriksson, 54, with an ultimatum to leave his girlfriend for her.

Jonsson's first public statement since the affair was reported last week was issued through her agent Melanie Cantor.

She said: "In the hope of dispelling any further rumours about my relationship with Sven-Goran Eriksson, I would like to make it clear that I have never issued him with any ultimatums.

'Speculation'

"Like everybody else, I wish Sven the very best for the World Cup.

Nancy Dell'Olio has insisted she and Sven are still an item

"But I also have a job to do, both as a mother and as a professional, and would like to be allowed to continue to do my job without any further speculation involving me and this relationship.

"I am no longer a part of this relationship."

Eriksson has been with his Italian girlfriend Nancy Dell'Olio for three years.

The media storm surround Eriksson, Jonsson and Dell'Olio first gathered when newspapers last week reported the England coach and TV presenter were having an affair.

Last Monday Eriksson told reporters outside his London home that he would not comment on his private life, despite the escalating interest in the trio in the Sunday papers.

Preparations

But at a press conference to launch the official England suit on Monday Eriksson said he had no complaints about the accuracy of the reporting.

But he denied the stories would affect England's preparations for the World Cup in South Korea and Japan in June.

Paul Newman, the FA's head of communications, had nothing to add after Wednesday's statement from Jonsson.

He said: "Sven has never commented on his private life and that remains his intention."