Grant: I'll call the shots
06 Oct 2007 - 11:58:07
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- Grant: I'll call the shots
Chelsea manager Avram Grant insists he will remain in full control of team affairs whoever arrives at Stamford Bridge to bolster his backroom staff.
Ajax coach and former Barcelona number two Henk ten Cate has been strongly linked with a move to the Blues, although the experienced Dutchman has played down the speculation.
But Grant is adamant he will still be in overall control no matter who is appointed to work alongside him and current assistant Steve Clarke.
"I have worked all my life with two assistants, even in the Israel national team," he said.
"Any of them can make an opinion but the final decision is mine, I am in charge.
"I need to pick the people who are good for my way - for the new way of Chelsea.
"Two weeks ago Steve Clarke was not in charge of the training at Chelsea. But he has done the job very well on the pitch and that is what I am looking for.
"I need to work with these people but I want my two assistants to be top of the line - one British one I have is top of the line and we want the European coach to be one of the best.
"I have had a meeting with people in the last two weeks and Henk had a good record as assistant at Barcelona.
"He is a nice person and when I am looking for an assistant, they would be from the top of the line because they need to work under me and understand the mode of football and the system of playing.
"I cannot say anything yet about Henk as it is not finished."
Meanwhile, Grant has revealed that Frank Lampard is set to return to the squad for Sunday's clash with Bolton
The England midfielder has been sidelined since tearing a thigh muscle during a training session in late August.