Jewell fears for Grant

Grant's position at the west London club has come under scrutiny in recent weeks after their Carling Cup final defeat to Tottenham and surprise FA Cup exit at the hands of Coca-Cola Championship Barnsley.

Jewell said: "I would imagine he has to win something - but even then for some people it might not be enough."

He added: "Avram has taken over from Jose Mourinho, who was a massive personality and was loved by the Chelsea fans. They were only going to put up with it while Grant was winning games. As soon as he loses a couple of games the knives were always going to be out for him."

The Israeli only took over as Mourinho's replacement in September but it was the Portuguese's name fans were chanting at the final whistle of their defeat to the Tykes, a result which reportedly enraged owner Roman Abramovich.

The Blues are still fighting for trophies on two fronts with the Champions League and Barclays Premier League still to play for - and victory over the Rams on Wednesday night would move them within five points of leaders Arsenal with a game in hand.

Grant's team selection for the Oakwell clash has come in for some criticism after key players like Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard were left out of the squad.

And he received little sympathy from Jewell, who admits he would love to have such an embarrassment of riches at his disposal.

He added: "It's going to be difficult. They probably made six changes but the six changes that they brought in are quality players like (Juliano) Belletti, (Michael) Essien, (Shaun) Wright-Phillips.

"It must be terrible having to decide whether to play (Nicolas) Anelka and Drogba, two up front or one up front. I wish I had those options but I'm sure they will be looking to bounce back."