Avaram Grant Rattled

A rattled Avram Grant launched an angry tirade against his critics and rejected suggestions Chelsea were in crisis after Sunday's Carling Cup final defeat by Tottenham.

Grant launched into his most fearsome outburst since taking over from deposed Jose Mourinho last September.

The 52-year-old Israeli rounded on his detractors and lashed out at agent interference, inaccurate media reporting and a lack of respect for what he and his players have achieved since he took charge.

Grant also explained that captain John Terry and first-team coach Henk ten Cate shook hands and hugged seconds after their training-ground row the day before the final at Wembley.

Chelsea also revealed they have issued legal correspondence over reports that scouting chief Frank Arnesen allegedly wants Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard as their next manager.

Grant initially began his pre-match media conference ahead of their game with West Ham on Saturday in a low-key mood but his demeanour soon changed.