Guus Hiddink

“It was important for me that I could have one-on-ones with a number of people. There is a lot of work to be done for the near future.”

“The team is not in a great state, the squad is ready for rebuilding. So in this coming period it is also about working towards the future.”

“I need to have a complete review and insight into the club and once I have that, measures need to be taken.”

Abramovich wrote:Lol have to win like 17 of the remaining 21 games, I can't see that happening.

I applaud you for your optimism though.

The axed Portuguese coach was expected to give a number of the club's best kids - in particular Ruben Loftus-Cheek - more game time this season.

But his seeming reluctance to play Chelsea's most promising youngsters was a factor behind the decision to sack him.

And Hiddink will now be expected to give the likes of Loftus-Cheek, Ola Aina and Charly Musonda Jnr more game time between now and the end of the season, particularly if hopes of securing a top-four spot fade even further.

Roman Abramovich remains committed to making a success of Chelsea's academy and Hiddink has been tasked with grooming the club's most promising stars for the next manager.

Chelsea are desperate to strengthen their homegrown options and believe promoting talent from their academy is the best way to do that.

Indeed, Abramovich is convinced there is plenty of talent in Chelsea's youth set-up and Hiddink will play a key role in helping to bring the club's stars of the future to the fore.