Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has labelled rumours linking him with the England job as 'absolute nonsense'.

O'Neill has persistently been linked with the position in the past, and fresh speculation emerged following a comment he made last week.

The Villa manager was quoted saying 'let's take things one step at a time', sparking rumours that he may be keen on succeeding Steve McClaren.

However, O'Neill has strongly denied the claims, and is adamant that he is fully committed to Aston Villa.

"It is absolute nonsense. I do not even remember saying it, to be perfectly honest," he told the Birmingham Mail.

"I said something some time ago to the tune that England would qualify and was asked something on the back of that that was completely and utterly hypothetical.

"It is utterly pointless to talk about it. I am committed to Aston Villa. I cannot end speculation. I have had it for years and years and years, no matter what you say.

"I have a big commitment to Aston Villa. It is as simple as that."