Hiddink linked with permanent Chelsea move

February 27, 2009

Even though Guss Hiddink has constantly stated that he is only at Chelsea until the end of the season, saying he plans to lead Russia to the 2010 World Cup, the rumours will not go away that he is going to take the job permanently.

Reacting to speculation he will sign a permanent deal, Hiddink said: “If there is something new I will announce it.

“But there is nothing new. It is not an everyday issue and we stick to what we have said recently.”

Rumours are circulating that current Zenit manager Dick Advocaat is being lined up as the man to take over the Russia job and free Hiddink from his commitments.

“I have settled in quickly,” he said. “I knew a bit of Premier League, English football and this club, and I am the kind of person who tries to adapt as soon as possible.

“This is high-level football and we have to keep up with the demands for this. I was very well received and have been backed up by all the departments assisting the first team.

“I am also very happy with the contribution of (assistant coach) Ray Wilkins.”

Hiddink rejected claims he has introduced a tougher disciplinary regime, with players fined for turning up late to training as well as wearing club suits to matches.

“In my previous club, players were fined for being late for training and at the end of the season, we donated that money to a charity,” he said.

“It is standard to a club, especially a big club, that everyone is living up to a normal discipline. It is nothing I have invented.”

More positive news for Chelsea was that Essien is back in training after being out for nearly 6 months and looks set for a reserve game soon.

“We worked with him in some tough five and eight-a-side games and we plan to play him in the reserves at Aston Villa on Monday,” added Hiddink.

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