In January Andy Coulson, prime minister David Cameron's spokesman, stepped down amid speculation he had known about the hacking -- something he has always denied.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Drogba also said he was glad he stayed at Chelsea after being linked with both Milan clubs in the last transfer window amid speculation he would leave the English Premier League club.

BBC: Drogba: 2010 Africa's best chance

In January, amid growing speculation he knew about the hacking, Coulson resigned as Cameron's official spokesman.

CNN: Hacking scandal exposed secrets at Murdoch's tabloid

Mr Emanuel left the White House amid growing speculation he planned to run for mayor of his native Chicago.

BBC: Who has left the White House so far?

His comments came amid weeks of speculation he was Ohio State's first choice to take over a program that has a glittering past but has faltered over a troublesome last 12 months.

WSJ: College Football: Urban Meyer Will Coach Ohio State Buckeyes

He also told BBC One's Andrew Marr Show he would "not flinch" amid growing speculation about his future.

BBC: Lib Dem conference: Clegg promises to push for wealth tax

There was speculation the 47-year-old would walk out when he missed training, amid claims relations with chairman Karl Oyston had become strained.

BBC: Blackpool boss Ian Holloway dismisses quit rumours

Amid speculation about future contenders for the leadership of the Conservative Party, the deputy prime minister was also asked whether he would rather have a drink with Theresa May or Boris Johnson.

BBC: Nick Clegg

Amid speculation about industrial action in response to public sector job losses, Business Secretary Vince Cable has drawn attention to what he says was the responsible attitude of unions to belt-tightening in the private sector.

BBC: Unions urge different approach as cuts debate continues