AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has ruled himself out of taking over as Italian boss from Roberto Donadoni after the Euro 2008 finals.While pleased to be linked to such a prestigious position, Ancelotti insists he could only do the job after 2010, when his contract with the Rossoneri ends.

His comments come after media speculation linking him to the job were fuelled by a statement from the Italian Soccer Federation which said Donadoni's future would not be decided until after the Euro finals in June.

Ancelotti said: "It pleases me to hear my name linked to the Azzurri bench, but I believe it is impossible.

"I could only train the national team after 2010 (when my contract with Milan expires).

"Donadoni deserves to stay, he is doing well and I hope he faces the European Championship with the utmost calm and takes the national team to the 2010 World Cup."

Ancelotti has coached Milan since November 2001 and has won numerous trophies, including two UEFA Champions League titles and Serie A.

But his position has been under speculation as the Rossoneri are trailing domestically this term - in fifth place, a massive 22 points behind fierce city rivals Internazionale - and were knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal in the last-16 phase.

More Football News from TEAMtalk