LONDON (AFP) - Avram Grant believes Chelsea were a fading force before he took over and led his team to within touching distance of a Premier League and Champions League double.

When Grant replaced Jose Mourinho as Chelsea manager in September, the Israeli claims he found a club in danger of imploding.

Mourinho had fallen out with owner Roman Abramovich and the side's results had suffered before the Portuguese was forced out.

But Grant has managed to steady the ship in impressive fashion and now Chelsea could finish the season with two trophies.

"I just need to do my job and be professional as I came here on a mission," Grant told the BBC. "The club was a good club but on the way down. Now we are on the right way.

"It is very exciting when you are creating something, especially at Chelsea. Here you need to create and win.

"When we lost in the cup it was like a funeral. It is a big challenge for me and one that makes me happy.

"We have fantastic players and fantastic staff. We are also playing good football, exciting football."

Manchester United remain favourites to retain the English league title, but Chelsea will snatch the silverware and complete a remarkable revival if they beat Bolton on Sunday and Sir Alex Ferguson's side draw or lose at Wigan.

Grant's team also have the Champions League final against United on May 21 to look forward to and the Blues boss is still hopeful they can go to Moscow as champions.

"We will never give up. No-one thought of us as a candidate in the title race," he said. "Now only goal difference separates us from United. I know it will be difficult for them at Wigan."