Journalists catch Mr Expressionless in a verbally dextrous mood

Something tells me Chelsea boss Avram Grant is a little peeved about his persecution in the press. After last night’s victory at Goodison Park, The Toad threw a lollipop on the floor, stamped his feet and muttered the following through a grumpy pout:

A deserved win? Grant: “Yes.”

What pleased you about the display? “I’m pleased.”

What pleased you? (After eight second delay) Grant: “I don’t know.” When the Blues boss was asked if he had an issue with the Press he said: “No.”
Grant was furious that the match was brought forward 48 hours at the request of Sky Sports.

As skipper John Terry walked down the tunnel after the win he roared to his team-mates: “We’re still in it boys.”

But Grant was less positive. The Press conference continued . . .

Is it a relief to win here? Grant: “Yes.”

Are you more satisfied with the performance or the victory? “Both.”

The Chelsea fans must believe you are still in the title race, do you have a message for them? “No.”

You seem less chatty than usual. Is it because of Sky TV moving the game to a Thursday? “Maybe it’s because of you.”

Is it a protest against newspapers? “No. Why?”

Is this because of Sky? “No. Sky is OK. I enjoy watching it.”

Is it easier to say nothing Avram? “I don’t know.”

Would you not like to gain some positive publicity for the result? “You can write what you want and I can answer what I want.”
Do you feel under pressure to deliver a trophy? “No.”

Michael Ballack? “Injured.” What’s his problem? “Ask the doctor.” He’s not here Avram. “Well call him then.”

It’s all very well for Grant to disagree with his representation in the press, but isn’t this approach a little childish? It certainly shows weakness - could you imagine Arsene Wenger or Alex Ferguson giving that kind of interview? As Rafa Benitez found out a few months ago, this kind of evasiveness will only make the press pick on him more, and it certainly won’t be impressing anyone at the club.

[Interview taken from The Sun, who claim Grant has ‘lost the plot’ on page 72, despite Chief Sports Writer Steve Howard refuting such a claim on page 71. Nice work.]