Abramovich to ‘use’ Advocaat to keep Hiddink at Chelsea

Chelsea are closer to naming Guus Hiddink as their permanent manager after it emerged Dick Advocaat is being lined up to succeed him as coach of Russia.

Hiddink has made a dramatic impact since arriving at Stamford Bridge as interim boss but has always maintained he will leave in the summer to concentrate on his full-time, international job.

However, Chelsea’s Russian owner Roman Abramovich, who is heavily involved in the funding of his national team, has now identified Advocaat as the leading replacement for his fellow Dutchman, which would allow Hiddink to remain in west London.