'Upset' Grant spurned new Blues role

Avram Grant is reportedly furious after being sacked by Chelsea and also snubbed the chance to return to his director of football role.

The Israeli tactician was fired on Saturday following two days of meetings amongst the club's hierarchy, despite guiding them to second place in the Premier League, a Carling Cup final and a first-ever Champions League final, since taking over from Jose Mourinho last September.

However, it appears Blues owner Roman Abramovich is not happy with three second places and no silverware which is why Grant was handed his marching orders.

A report in the News of the World claims Grant is fuming at Chelsea's decision which came just three days after the club missed out on the Champions League trophy on penalties to Manchester United.

He reportedly told friends: "I took on the job at a very difficult time but Chelsea have pulled the plug on me. I feel very hurt, upset and angry. I feel completely betrayed."

Grant was told the news by Abramovich in person at his London mansion, where it is also claimed he turned down the chance to resume his £2million-a-year director of football job.

Russia coach Guus Hiddink, Inter Milan's former coach Roberto Mancini, outgoing Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard and current Blackburn boss Mark Hughes have all been linked to the job, while the future of the current coaching staff is unknown.