The Man Who Turned Down Newcastle Looks To Premiership

The Dutchman was a leading candidate to take over from Graeme Souness when the Scot was relieved of duties at St James' Park, but he decided to try and make the Russian national side a major force in world footbal.

The man who took both Holland and then South Korea to the semi-finals of the World Cup before leading Australia into to the last 16 in Germany last summer has also found himself continually named as the front-runner to take charge at Chelsea should Jose Mourinho ever leave Stamford Bridge.

Hiddink: "I am a 60-year-old coach and I do not know what the future will bring.

"But as long as I have got the energy or receive the energy from the young lads, I am willing to work with young lads, and not anywhere in the world.

"But England is always very challenging - however, I am very happy in this transition time in Russia.

"They want me to stay regardless of the results coming up because they feel we are on the edge of starting something new.

"But I have not made up my mind to stay or whether to go, or have six months sabbatical.

"I do not know yet - let's first have the forthcoming weeks in the qualification."

"We have a tough group, and I think that the three teams are now competing for this [qualification].

"Everyone has to play everyone, so it is very complicated.

"Of course, I would like to be there with Russia, and wish that England will be there because they are always good at a tournament.

"But realistically, you have to consider Croatia are a very experienced side now for many years. They do not spoil many points."