In an interview with several national newspapers, European Commission President José Manuel Barroso said he was "very proud of the support" he had received from a variety of EU governments and political families, adding that he will be ready to start forming his new team as soon as his nomination becomes official.

In an interview with French newspaper Le Monde and other national newspapers, Barroso said he would make his decision "after the elections, taking into account the support from member states and the Parliament" after the European elections on 4-7 June.

Most European leaders have already lent their support to Barroso, including his own conservative family (EurActiv 16/10/08) and ruling socialists in key countries like Spain and the UK (EurActiv 17/03/09).

With the Party of European Socialists unable to agree on an alternative candidate - and barring last-minute surprises at the June European elections, which the conservatives are tipped to win - it therefore seems Barroso is set for a smooth re-appointment.