Guus Hiddink is all set to become the interim manager at Chelsea following Jose Mourinho’s dismissal on Wednesday evening.
The former-Netherlands coach was in London on Friday to hold talks with the hierarchy at the Blues, as the two parties look to iron out a deal.
Saturday’s visit to Sunderland will be a game too soon for Hiddink, with the Chelsea players looking to bounce back from Monday nights 2-1 loss to unlikely Premier League leaders Leicester City.
Hiddink, who has hosted a host of clubs, had managed Chelsea before as the interim coach back in 2009. He won the FA Cup with the club that year.
Mourinho endured jubilation at the end of last season as he led his Blues to the Premier League title, but his joy was short-lived, as seven months later he is now without a job having led Chelsea to one of their worst first halves of the season in recent times.
Chelsea sit in 16th place, one point above the relegation zone going into Saturday’s game.
Rumours of the dressing room being against Mourinho may have been quashed by club captain John Terry, who described Wednesday as a sad day for Chelsea on his personal Instagram.
“Going to miss you boss,
“The very best I have ever worked with, unbelievable memories together. Thank you doesn’t seem enough.”
Terry was not alone in thanking his former boss, as Cesar Azpilicueta also claimed it to be a sad day.
“I would publicly like to thank Jose Mourinho for his contribution to this club and for everything he has taught me over the years.
“He will always be remembered. Thank you mister.”
Hiddink’s challenge for the remainder of the season will be to try and lead his team up the table and into the European places – whether that be the Europa League or Champions League, at a push.
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