Further doubts have surfaced over Avram Grant's longevity as Chelsea manager.

The Observer says in a team meeting before Chelsea's 2-0 defeat at Manchester United three weeks ago, Grant named a line-up with just 10 men. According to a dressing-room source, the manager then described the team's formation as "4-4-1".

Although club captain John Terry lauded Grant as "definitely the man for the future" last week, the reaction of the majority of his team-mates has been less enthusiastic. One senior player has said that "Grant does not have the quality to coach a team like this", others are seriously considering their future at the club.