体坛英语新闻：Oliveira denies Japan coaching offer

SAO PAULO, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Palmeiras manager Oswaldo de Oliveira has denied reports linking him to the vacant Japan coaching job.

The 64-year-old Brazilian has been touted as a possible replacement for Javier Aguirre, who was sacked after the Samurai Blue's quarterfinal exit at last month's Asian Cup.

Speaking to reporters in Sao Paulo on Friday, Oliveira reaffirmed his commitment to Palmeiras, where he is contracted until December.

"Nobody in Japan has spoken to me," Oliveira said. "I am honored that people are talking about me. But there is nothing to it."

The Japan Football Association is expected to make an announcement on the position before the domestic season starts on March 7.

Others to have been linked to the role are Luciano Spalletti, Dragan Stojkovic and Levir Culpi.

Oliveira is rated highly in Japan after guiding J-League club Kashima Antlers to nine trophies from 2007 to 2011.

"I have a signed contract so I can't talk about hypotheticals," Oliveira said. "I haven't had a concrete offer so I can't make an opinion.

"It's marvelous for me. I feel proud to be mentioned."