Arthur recently extended his South Africa contract until 2011

South Africa coach Mickey Arthur has pledged his loyalty to the Proteas in answer to speculation linking him with the vacant role of England coach.

Arthur is rumoured to be the England and Wales Cricket Board's top target to replace the sacked Peter Moores.

"My loyalties are totally with South Africa," said the 40-year-old Arthur. "I can't see myself going to England.

"I've got another three years on my contract with Cricket South Africa, and I'm excited about where we are at."

Arthur, who has been South Africa coach since May 2005, admitted there had been contact between his agent and the ECB but denied any direct involvement.

"I certainly didn't apply for the job," he said. "There have been chats back and forth, but I've only chatted to the agent who looks after me."

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Australian Tom Moody and Kent director of cricket Graham Ford have both ruled themselves out of the running for the role, which the ECB aims to fill before the touring West Indies side arrive in England on 6 May.

Meanwhile, former England spinner Ashley Giles has expressed his disappointment at missing out on an interview for the job.

"It's disappointing and I'm not going to deny that," Warwickshire's director of cricket told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I would not have applied for the position if I didn't think I was capable of doing the job."

This increases the likelihood they will turn to Andy Flower, who oversaw the recently concluded tour of the West Indies after being appointed interim coach at short notice.

Flower, backed by Test captain Andrew Strauss, was originally recruited by Moores, who was sacked in January following a high-profile falling out with then captain Kevin Pietersen.

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