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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