Soccer: Chelsea have denied Ashley Cole taunted Manchester City's players immediately after Monday night's 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge. The England international is reported to have incited a confrontation in the tunnel by mocking City over their group exit from the Champions League.

However, Chelsea insist the England left-back did not make the comments and stress that he is on good terms with City.

"Contrary to reports, Ashley Cole did not say anything to the opposition in the tunnel after Monday's game," said a Chelsea spokesman. "Ashley has huge respect for the players and staff at Manchester City, many of whom he knows personally and calls friends."

City manager Roberto Mancini stated after the game that there had been a heated exchange in the tunnel between players from both teams.

"I don't know if (Ashley) Cole said something. I don't know what he said. I don't understand," said Mancini.

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas offered a swift denial of Cole's involvement.

"It's untrue and it's unfair. It really doesn't matter now," he said.

Chelsea's victory has thrust them back into the Barclays Premier League title race, leaving them seven points behind leaders City. They face Wigan on Saturday before travelling to fellow title contenders Tottenham the following Thursday.