Fulham boss Roy Hodgson had looked most likely to take over before Marseille's title-winning coach Deschamps emerged as a strong contender.

However, the World Cup winner has now rejected any chance of him joining Liverpool, revealing he is "in discussions" about a contract extension with the French club.

He explained: "I am happy at Marseille. I am not there for just one year. A coach must be there for the long haul, and that is my wish."

The French club's president has also dismissed the chances of Deschamps, who also led Monaco to the 2004 Champions League final, taking over at Anfield.

It was reported in L'Equipe that Liverpool chief executive Christian Purslow contacted Marseille and asked to speak to Deschamps - a request which was turned down by Jean-Claude Dassier.

Dassier claimed: "He asked me if I allowed him to meet Didier and Jean-Pierre Bernes (Deschamps' agent).

"I replied that I did not allow any meeting to take place. I have also indicated that there is no way we'll let go of our coach."

PA Sport