Hiddink reveals his blueprint for Chelsea
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GUUS HIDDINK has given the first glimpse of his blueprint for Chelsea success.
At an open training session yesterday, the new Stamford Bridge boss dropped a hint of how he intends to get the Blues’ stumbling season back on track. He also addressed 5,000 fans like an old pro, telling them: “I’m not here to entertain you. But it’s my job to make the players entertain you.”
After some of the dross which has been seen at the Bridge this season, an hour with the Dutchman felt like carnival time. Mostly kids on half-term break, the crowd cheered their favourite players’ better touches and the ad-hoc comedy routine provided by Ray Wilkins’ warm-up.
For the more observant, there was a clue as to just how Hiddink intends to change the team, as well as a defensive scare ahead of the weekend.
Brazilian stopper Alex missed the session because of an ankle injury, giving the new manager a possible crisis at the back for Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa. Left-back Ashley Cole is suspended while Ricardo Carvalho’s hamstring injury means he is still not in full training.
Hiddink did nothing to hide his contingency plans, playing Paulo Ferreira at left-back in a practice match. Michael Mancienne also swapped places with Branislav Ivanovic to partner John Terry during the 30-minute game.
More significant though was the change in shape and formation of the team Hiddink clearly considers his first choice. With fourth-placed Chelsea gunning for third-placed Villa, it seems the manager is pinning his hopes on a 4-4-2.
Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka played as striking partners. A little further back, John Obi Mikel traded places with Deco, who then anchored a midfield diamond, with Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard deployed just ahead and wide of him.
Watching carefully from the touchline was none other than Roman Abramovich. After reports that the Chelsea owner has lost around £6billion of his personal fortune, he seems to be finding solace in football.
Hiddink said: “I hope to make a very good end of this season. We need your support. I’ll give you everything I have to make the team work.”
The PA announcer also tried to lighten the mood.
He quipped: “Arsene Wenger is planting potatoes in the Emirates’ goalmouth so he’ll have something to lift come May.”
The crowd groaned at the gag.
Hiddink, though, has a much better chance of putting a smile back on Chelsea faces.
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Watching carefully from the touchline was none other than Roman Abramovich. After reports that the Chelsea owner has lost around £6billion of his personal fortune, he seems to be finding solace in football.
given now he is "poorer", has to go back to his "cheaper" toys...
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He can try lah but the jury is still out on him...