Sven-Goran Eriksson, the Manchester City manager, today tried to end rumours regarding Richard Dunne's future at the club.

Dunne, the City captain, who has enjoyed another outstanding campaign at the heart of his side's defence is out of contract at the end of next season, and has been linked with a move to Newcastle United.

"I'm quite sure that you will see Richard Dunne playing for Manchester City next season, and the season after," Eriksson said.

"But these are busy times and I don't think it will be resolved within the next couple of weeks. I think it's more of a question for the end of the season."

Eriksson also insisted decisions had yet to be made about the futures of a number of other players.

"We haven't decided that yet and certainly not publicly," he said. "We still have six games to play so I think it's too early to comment on it. We're trying to concentrate on Chelsea and playing better football than last weekend."