Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Avram Grant as their new director of football.

The former Israel boss will be working closely with boss Jose Mourinho, the club confirmed, as well as chief executive Peter Kenyon and Frank Arnesen, who oversees youth development.

As a widely reported friend of owner Roman Abramovich, Grant's arrival had been expected following a year at Portsmouth where he was technical director.

"Grant will be responsible for liaison on, and co-ordination of, football matters across the various areas of Chelsea," read a statement from Chelsea.

"He will also sit on the football club board and report to chief executive Peter Kenyon."