WEST HAM are expected to unveil Avram Grant as their new manager by the end of this week.

The former Portsmouth boss returns from holiday on Wednesday and is likely to sign a contract with the Hammers on Thursday.

West Ham owner David Gold told BBC Sport: “After an hour, we knew we could work with this manager. We are very optimistic.

“I think it's time for the football club to get some stability with people that have been there, done that and got the T-shirt.

“The bottom line is the relationship between the manager and the chairman is crucial. In our case it's two chairmen so it's even more difficult as you need to have a relationship between three people.”

Grant is expected to be unveiled as Gianfranco Zola's successor, after the Italian was sacked last month, having guided the club to survival following a turbulent season at Upton Park.

Grant took Chelsea to within a whisker of winning the Champions League in 2008 before moving to Portsmouth and guiding them to the FA Cup final last season, where they lost to Chelsea.