Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has expressed that he is absolutely certain of midfielder Joe Cole's stay at Stamford Bride next season.

Cole, who has failed to hold down a regular starting berth since returning from a serious knee injury, has his contract expiring at the end of the season.

With talks over a new deal being stalled the former West Ham United player has been linked with a move to rivals Manchester United.

But Ancelotti has dismissed such speculation by responding that the chances of Cole being a Chelsea player next season as "100%".

Cole and his representatives have reportedly angered Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich with their hard-line stance over wages during contract negotiations.

However, Ancelotti said he was sure Cole wanted to stay and hinted that he may use the England international more during the season's run-in.

"Contracts are not my problem but technically I think he has to stay here 100%," added the Italian manager.

"He's keeping a very good mental attitude. Even when he's substitute he doesn't lose his confidence, he doesn't lose his mental attitude, he works very hard.

"He's an important player for us. He helps his team-mates and he could play other important games (this season)".