But it may be better for the Israeli to concentrate on the dissension in his own dressing room.

Chelsea's stars could all quit the club if Grant, and his similarly unpopular assistant Henk ten Cate, remain in charge after this season.

Real Madrid target Michael Essien is likely to join Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard on the list of those heading for the exit.

A well-placed source told The Daily Mail: 'The players are just not having Grant, and the same goes for some of the staff.'

Real may offer Brazil star Robinho and Dutch winger Royston Drenthe to reduce the £30 million (S$81 million) it would cost to secure Essien. Michael Ballack is also believed to be considering his position.

There was speculation in the News of the World yesterday that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is lining up Russia coach Guus Hiddink as Grant's replacement.

For now though, Grant is focused on trying to destabilise Liverpool's preparations for tomorrow's first leg, describing Gerrard as 'his favourite player'.

The England midfielder almost joined Chelsea in June 2004 for £20 million, and again 12 months later, for £32million.

He changed his mind only after his family received death threats and a fan burnt his replica shirt live on Sky TV, reported The Times.

Now, Grant will try to make it third-time lucky.

'Gerrard is a great player and a great person. For me, he is the player of the year in England, and maybe in Europe, because of the influence he has on the team,' said Grant. 'He is a nice guy and an example to others. He plays against me, but he's still my favourite player.'

Reminded that Mourinho had tried to sign him twice, Grant said: 'If you can bring him to me, I will be happy.'

With his 28th birthday approaching next month, Gerrard's chances of winning the Premier League - the one club medal to elude him - seem further away than ever.

He is also said to be appalled by the boardroom feud at Anfield.