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Avram Grant resigns as Portsmouth manager

Avram Grant is expected to take over at West Ham following the recent dismissal of Gianfranco Zola © Getty Images

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Avram Grant has resigned as manager of Portsmouth and Soccernet can reveal that the Israeli has offers from six clubs around Europe - including two from the Premier League - but West Ham remain firm favourites for his services.

Grant, who took charge of the club in November 2009 following the departure of Paul Hart, won many plaudits for the way he has led Pompey this season as they battled financial turmoil, reaching the FA Cup final.

And Portsmouth administrator Andrew Andronikou has revealed just how in demand his services are after a tenure which has seen the coach's stock rise dramatically.

Soccernet spoke exclusively to Andronikou on Thursday evening. He said: "If you're asking my opinion he will ultimately end up at West Ham, but they are not the only show in town, not by any means.

"Look, we wanted to keep Avram, and we tried to persuade him to stay, but he has half a dozen offers, and it is understandable that he is going given the uncertainty that surrounds this club.

"He told me today that he was issuing a statement and that he is planning to return to the Premier League, but he has another offer besides West Ham, but of course I will honour the confidentiality and again we are talking about another manager's job, so I cannot possibly name that club.

"He also has offers from Scotland, Holland and Italy, and I don't mean little clubs. He is wanted by some high ranking European clubs. He has a number of options and I am not surprised he is such a wanted man. I am out here in Portugal and the taxi drivers ask about Mr Grant and say how wonderful he is, and how much they'd love him out there. He has performed such miracles at Portsmouth, he is likened to Jose Mourinho.

"No manager could have endured more than he did in the last three months, and stuck by the club. I cannot think of enough superlatives to describe him. We are all very grateful to him, really grateful, and we wish him well wherever he decides to go."

Despite the interest from several clubs, Upton Park remains the most likely destination after Gianfranco Zola was sacked last week.

Grant issued a statement to Portsmouth's official website, which read: "This was one of the most difficult decisions I've had to take in my football career. After a lot of soul searching and under the circumstances I'm taking a different direction.

"It's been both a difficult and complex year for us at the club, but at the same time, it's been a wonderful and uplifting professional and personal experience. I have been inundated with letters and emails from fans. Many have brought tears to my eyes and take it from me; it takes a lot to do that. I will never forget you, the loyal fans of Pompey who, without a doubt, helped me protect the team under such complex circumstances.

"There are very few teams in the world that have fans as passionate and devoted as you are. Seeing you all so proud with your heads held up high is the best reward I can receive. It has been a great experience to be part of one of the most wonderful occurrences that has happened in the history of British football and also shows that even in the most desperate times, loyalty, devotion, professionalism and passion can be demonstrated.

"I wish you all the possible success which you genuinely deserve.''

Grant took over at Fratton Park from Paul Hart in November as the club moved from one disaster to another. After entering administration Portsmouth were doomed to relegation, but Grant did not walk away and led the club to the FA Cup final where they lost 1-0 to Premier League champions Chelsea.

Grant's statement continued: "Portsmouth has given me a feeling of home away from home. I might be leaving Portsmouth physically, but you cannot take Portsmouth away from me and my heart. I have informed Andrew (Andronikou) the administrator that if and when the need arises, I will be at his disposal to assist in any way I possibly can.

"At this point I would like to mention the good job the administrator is doing, under very difficult circumstances after he received the club from Mr Chernoi and Mr Levy which they had saved from liquidation. Thank you for that.

"I can never fully repay the faith and backing I got from the fans, players and staff who gave 100%. I truly thank you all for granting me the opportunity and the privilege to be part of your special city and unique club.''

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