Avram Grant has been reinstalled as Director of Football at Premier League strugglers Portsmouth.

The former Chelsea manager, 54, joined the Fratton Park club in the same role in June 2006, just months after stepping down from the Israel national job.

The appointment was made days after billionaire Saudi businessman Ali Al Faraj bought the club.

In February, Grant was the favourite to replace Tony Adams as manager. Initially appointed as caretaker-manager, Paul Hart took over but with the team languishing at the foot of the Premier League. It is hoped that Grant’s experience will help the team avoid relegation.

News of talks with Grant emerged after Peter Storrie, Portsmouth’s chief executive, moved to deny claims that Hart was to be replaced.

Grant was also tipped to take charge of the Israel national team for a second time by the end of the year unless offer a top job in Europe.