Espanyol midfielder Albert Riera has dismissed 'speculation' linking the winger with a move back to the Premiership. Both Tottenham and Man Utd were reportedly interested in signing the Spaniard.

"The news concerning possible interest from English clubs is just paper talk," he said.

"I have not spoken with anyone and I am happy here. These rumours are common in football.

"I know Juande Ramos (Tottenham manager) but I have had no contact with them.

"My sole focus is on doing my best for Espanyol. We want to qualify for a European competition this season and that is my only objective.

"We have had some disappointing results in the last few weeks and it is necessary for us to recover. We have sufficient time as we are only two points away from a Champions League spot.

"I know the Premier League well from my time with Manchester City and I believe that it was a good experience for me. It was a positive time in my career.

"But I have a contract with Espanyol until 2009 and nobody has told me that they have any intention of selling me.

"For me this campaign is special because the team have progressed so far and I hope to represent Spain at the European Championships at the end of it.

"I think that I am playing well, but I am very ambitious and want to achieve even more success in the future."