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HIDDINK: CHELSEA CHANGING MINDS
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Photo chelseafc.com
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As he prepares for his Cup Final farewell, Guus Hiddink
believes he is leaving behind a club with a brighter image than the one
he joined.
In three-and-a-half months Hiddink has rejuvenated the squad and ensured
a strong challenge for silverware at a time when there were doubts over
its future. That he has done so with winning football boasting both style
and substance must come as a bonus.
'I think this team has personality if you see the individual players.
What I had as a reaction from my time here, people are changing a bit
their minds. They are going to like more and more Chelsea. I think that's
an achievement, not just in England, but also abroad, that Chelsea is
recognised now as a big club,' said the Dutchman.
'I think the way the club presented itself in recent months is what people
recognised, the way of playing, the character, the fighting spirit and
the good players,' he continued. 'You have the attention when you play
the Champions League and top duels in the Premier League, and Chelsea
has won a lot.
'I think the image of a club is very important worldwide, there is always
this up and down in winning a trophy but the overall image is important
in the world of football. </P>
'The image of Barcelona is very attractive, they have a way of playing
and are committed to other things in life as well. That's a good image
they have. They are a good example for young people, it is good for young
people to see where the positive football and positive attitude is.'</P>
Before Hiddink's departure he has important decisions to make, perhaps
the biggest being which side to field at Wembley against Everton on Saturday.
He admits it is a difficult task, requiring openness on his part. </P>
'I like to be very direct and when I make a mistake I will admit it. That's
why I think the relationship with players has to be direct also. I have
to disappoint on the FA Cup Final seven players who are not in the starting
line-up, or even outside the 18. </P>
'They can never accuse me of manipulation in the wrong way so I have to
make this direct confrontation. It is always with the helmet open view,'
he smiled.
The 62-year-old will have almost a full squad to choose from as he prepares
to say goodbye. Ricardo Carvalho and Deco have returned to training with
the rest of the squad and Juliano Belletti looks to be winning his race
for fitness after limping off at Sunderland last weekend.
Frank Lampard and Alex have already been given the all-clear after sitting
out Sunday's 3-2 win with minor injuries and will both be expected to
start at Wembley.
All will become clear when Hiddink leads his side out before kick-off
this afternoon. Whether you are at Wembley or not, be sure to sing your
heart out for the Blues!
Chelseafc.com,
30 May 2009
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