Bits And Bobs

Last updated : 20 September 2007 By Ed
From the BBC

Chelsea have confirmed that Avram Grant has replaced Jose Mourinho as the new manager at Stamford Bridge.

The Israeli, who was the club's director of football, will take charge alongside assistant Steve Clarke.

"The club is delighted in Avram we have an experienced man who can come in at a difficult time," said a club statement.

The statement comes after BBC Sport's Garry Richardson revealed the former Israel coach would be handed the management reins at the Blues.

The 52-year-old is a close friend of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and his summer arrival at the club came after opposition from Mourinho.

Mourinho told Grant not to interfere with team affairs but the Israeli's position was strengthened with a seat on the board.

Grant previously held the position of technical director at Portsmouth before moving to Chelsea.

The mirror reports that United are interested in Sporting Lisbon's Nigerian Rabiu Ibrahim.