By Caroline Cheese

Pearce has said he is willing to talk to the FA

Manchester City have pleaded for an end to speculation linking Stuart Pearce to the new England management team.

Newspaper reports suggested City would be willing to let Pearce take on a part-time coaching role with the national side next season.

But a City spokesman told BBC Sport: "Stuart Pearce is manager of this club.

"We have not received an approach from the Football Association and any other speculation regarding Stuart is rampant and unjustified."

The FA board is not due to meet until 27 February - when it will discuss the process for finding and naming Sven-Goran Eriksson's successor.

But since it was announced Eriksson would be leaving after the World Cup, a succession of names have been linked with the position.

One of those, Charlton's Alan Curbishley, has also expressed his frustration at the continuing rumours.

"The situation should be clarified," he said on Sunday.

"In my opinion, the FA should turn round and say they will not make an announcement until after the final Premiership game on 7 May, which will just allow everyone to get on with what they have to do."

Pearce plays down England chances

Pearce, 43, initially laughed off suggestions that he may take over as England manager but his stance has softened in recent weeks and he is now willing to talk to the FA.