Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is losing confidence in the prospect of Avram Grant being his long-term manager.

The Independent says the 52-year-old, despite his continued optimism, is highly unlikely to be the club's manager come the start of next season. Part of Abramovich's frustration, which, according to sources, was apparent after Wednesday's 4-4 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, is the fact that Grant does not appear able to rise to the occasion and deal with the so-called "big games" he needs to win.

The Russian did not "enjoy" the events at White Hart Lane and fears that if his ambitions are to be fully realised then he may have to start looking for another manager - although, despite numerous suggestions from within the club, he has not settled on a candidate. If he is replaced, Grant will be offered the chance to return to the job he first took at the club last summer, against Jose Mourinho's wishes, as its director of football.