Carlo Ancelotti has insisted he will never quit Chelsea, claiming Roman Abramovich must decide whether or not he should be sacked.
Ancelotti is under more pressure than ever at Stamford Bridge following Saturday's shock FA Cup defeat to Everton. It left Chelsea's season in real danger of unravelling completely, with the Barclays Premier League title all but surrendered and Champions League qualification hanging in the balance.
Asked if he would ever consider resigning, the Italian said: "No, not me. I don't have to consider my position. It is the owner that has to consider my position, not myself."
Chelsea's only remaining hope of silverware is in the Champions League. which they resume on Tuesday night when they visit FC Copenhagen in the last 16. Defeat in that tie would surely test billionaire owner Abramovich's patience to what could be breaking point.
Ancelotti enjoyed the backing of Abramovich at the end of 2010 after overseeing the club's worst run in the league for almost 15 years. A mini-revival followed but the past fortnight has witnessed another calamitous run of results.
Luiz Felipe Scolari was sacked two years ago when Abramovich began to fear Champions League qualification would not be achieved and Chelsea are in an even worse position now, lying fifth in the Premier League.
Winning the double in his maiden season has arguably bought Ancelotti the opportunity to try to end the club's long wait for Champions League glory. And he maintains that, despite recent results, fulfilling Abramovich's long-held dream is still possible.
"The Champions League is not easy, but it will bring a lot of motivation for every one of us," said the Italian, who acknowledged his job would ultimately depend on improving Chelsea's flagging fortunes.
"We have to have the right pressure. We have to play against Copenhagen. We have 180 minutes to win this game."
He added boldly: "Chelsea won't go out against Copenhagen. I think we have the possibility to win against Copenhagen."
Source: PA
