Avram Grant has been appointed director of football at Chelsea and will also sit on the board at Stamford Bridge.

As a widely reported friend of owner Roman Abramovich, Grant's arrival had been expected but there was little suggestion of a role at board level.

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.

"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."