West Bromwich Albion manager Steve Clarke has rejected speculation that he could take over at Chelsea next season.

Rafael Benitez confirmed on Wednesday night that he would be leaving Stamford Bridge in the summer.

"I think it's too early to start connecting me with Chelsea," Clarke, who spent nearly 20 years with the club as both a player and coach, told reporters. "There are a lot of managers that are out there who have a better case than me.

"I'm not even a year into the job here. Up to now it has been a great season and I haven't looked anywhere beyond that."

West Brom make the trip to Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.