Mourinho, in Spain this week, revealed he would welcome an eventual return to England and added he felt "nothing" for his successor, although Grant was diplomatic with his response.

He stressed he had the utmost respect for Mourinho's work for the club - bringing consecutive Premier League titles, the League Cup twice and the FA Cup - but is focused on the future rather than the past.

"I have respect for what Jose did at the club in the past," he said. "The club brought me here to go a different way and that's what I have to concentrate on.

"I'm not a man of fighting. I'll only fight for my team on the pitch, do everything for my club, and I have a lot of respect for all people, including Jose. I have no problem with him."

Grant believes the changes he has implemented, in terms of preparations and style of play, is best illustrated by Michael Ballack's recent form.

The Germany international has linked up with Frank Lampard in midfield and has taken the plaudits for his best form since arriving from Bayern Munich at the start of last season.

"I think the different style of football is better for him, just as it is the team," Grant said.

"We play with many attacking players, players who know how to move the ball and pass the ball.

"It's easier for him and the others. He's an intelligent player and he knows the mode of football.

"We are looking forward to another style of football, a different style of training, a different style of playing."

While Grant has brought his own style to the team, Mourinho's legacy of success still creates a pressure to deliver.

Grant was criticised for his selection and tactics for the Carling Cup final defeat to Tottenham but is comfortable with being asked to live up to the previous regime.

The Israeli will have another go at chasing a domestic trophy this weekend when Chelsea travel to Barnsley for an FA Cup quarter-final.

"When you come to a big club, whether in England or somewhere else, you want to do everything to win trophies," Grant added. "I feel pressure, but it's a good pressure.

"I don't want to live without pressure. I miss my wife and my two children and I could live with them, but I like this pressure."

Grant is also wary of underestimating his Coca-Cola Championship opponents this weekend, especially at Oakwell where they will be looking for another giantkilling.

"They have lost only two league game at home this season, so it will be difficult because they've beaten Liverpool in the last round as well," Grant said.

Petr Cech's injury means Carlo Cudicini could continue in goal, while Andriy Shevchenko played for the reserves this week but is not ready for first-team action as he returns from a back problem.

AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi stated this week Shevchenko would be the "ideal choice" to replace the injured Ronaldo, although Grant sees the striker as part of his plans.

"Berlusconi is one of my favourite people in football," Grant said.

"I like him, his courage and his vision. I understand why he (Berlusconi) said that. Shevchenko is in the reserves because, like Ballack previously, he's been injured.

"He's improving. He's not ready yet, but he's moving in the right way. I don't see why he wouldn't have a future at Chelsea. But to talk about that now is not right."