Guus Hiddink has spoken of his admiration for Chelsea
owner Roman Abramovich, even if the Russia boss is currently
playing down talk of a future move to Stamford
Bridge.
Hiddink has developed a good relationship with Abramovich through
his role with the Russian national side and speculation persists
that he is being lined up as Jose Mourinho's long-term replacement
in West London.
The Dutchman is committed to leading Russia to Euro 2008,
potentially at England's expense, but, having received substantial
support from Abramovich in his current role, Hiddink is likely to
be a prime contender for the Chelsea job should Mourinho decide to
move on next summer.
Hiddink has also been mooted as a potential candidate for the
English national job, but for now the former Holland, South Korea
and Australia boss remains fully committed to the latest country to
harness his talents.
"Chelsea? England? It's all rumours," Hiddink told The Times. "I
have my contact, of course, but not regarding any position with
Chelsea.
"They are doing what they do; I enjoy very much working in Russia
and I work until the end of my contract."
However, Hiddink has made no secret of his good working
relationship with Abramovich, a situation that is unlikely to
dampen talk that he could eventually take the reins at
Chelsea.
"Every now and then we have our contact [with Abramovich], which is
good and very open," Hiddink added.
"I like very much his attitude, his thinking. He's very down to
earth and I love to have this contact with him every now and
then.
"I have not made up my mind [where to work next] because I stick
every day to my job.
"After 2008, we will see what happens. And I am already 60 years of
age. But I have the drive, the will to work with young people. In
our profession, you cannot look into the future too much."
