AVRAM GRANT has defended his record with West Ham in the face of growing speculation about his future.

The Hammers boss insisted he should not be the only manager under scrutiny after over-seeing the team's 2-1 win over Birmingham City in the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final at Upton Park.

“There are seven teams in our position more or less in the league,” he said. “One point or two points are not a big difference. We are the only team in the semi-final with the finances we have and I am the only one you ask about this (his future).”

Grant's cause has been helped in recent games by his excellent record in cup competitions, having first seen off Barnsley in Saturday's FA Cup third round tie, before taking a big step towards Wembley and a final place when the ten-men Hammers recovered to beat the Blues.

Mark Noble put the hosts ahead with a terrific volley from an acute angle, but Birmingham gained the initiative when Liam Ridgewell's header pulled them level after the break and Victor Obinna was sent off for a petulant kick aimed at Sebastian Larsson.

However, Carlton Cole came off the bench and within three minutes of his introduction had scored, albeit with the help of keeper Ben Foster, who could only help the striker's tame effort over the line.

“Today it was hard with 10 players for many minutes. I am pleased for the players, the spirit was great,” added Grant.

“It’s not easy to play many games in short times. We did very well. The football first half was good and we could have easily got more goals.

“In the second half they scored. It was a good goal but the first time they (opponents) have scored against us from a corner for a long time.

“Then after we were with 10 men we did great after 10 minutes. The passing between the players for the second goal was great, so I think I’m very pleased with the spirit of the players.”