Reuters

Grant praises Chelsea players

Updated 08.41 Tue May 06 2008

Keywords: avram grant, chelsea, premier league, football, sport

Chelsea manager Avram Grant insists he has fulfilled all of his goals for the season.

The club could end the season without a trophy, but Grant has steered the team into the final of the Champions League and they will finish at least second in the Premier League.

"We have done more than I even expected" - Avram Grant

Grant was a surprise choice to replace Jose Mourinho in September but it seems Chelsea's achievements this season will be enough to save the manager's job.

Grant said: "From day one our target was to be in the Champions League final and to improve our game.

"We've done more than I even expected, so we want to believe the season will end well and we will fight to the last minute.

Chelsea can win the Premier League title on the final day of the season if Manchester United fail to win at Wigan Athletic.

Grant added: "United have had a fantastic season. They've been champions many times before but this year we have given them a good battle and it is not finished yet.

"Even if they win the title on goal difference you must give my team respect."

Grant is also convinced United will not find it easy to beat Wigan, who are managed by former United defender Steve Bruce.

Grant said: "For more than 30 years I've visited English football, at least five times a year since I was a boy.

"Even when I didn't have much money I came here. One thing I like is that you play football until the end, not like other countries.

"Sometimes I'm too positive and too optimistic, but I believe in the traditions of English football.

"We need to win first and it's not easy for them to play at Wigan.

"I don't believe that Bruce will give the game to Manchester United."