Guus
Hiddink admits he is using mid-table security to promote youth and give
Chelsea's young players the chance to show what they can do.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek has started three of the last four games under the
interim boss, while Matt Miazga, Kenedy and Bertrand Traore have all had
minutes under their belts in recent weeks.
Chelsea were convincingly beaten 3-0 by Manchester City at Stamford Bridge
on Saturday evening, but Hiddink does not believe the damage is irreparable.
When asked how far Chelsea have fallen behind the likes of City at the top
of the Premier League, he told
Sky Sports' Patrick Davison: "It's difficult
to say. You can restore it hopefully as soon as possible in the upcoming
time.
"I must say that I use [this time] now to get some young players on board,
and then there is a risk that you get a little bit outplayed, but that's not
due to the young players. I want them to get the experience. There's nothing
to win for Chelsea, and then when you play a big team, for them it's a very
good experience."
The Blues have had a torrid campaign, parting company with Jose Mourinho in
December. They now sit 10th in the league with little to play for, but
Hiddink is desperate for his players to show some passion in the final weeks
of the season.
"[There is] nothing at stake in silverware, of course, but having as
difficult a season as Chelsea, everyone has to show his character and his
pride at playing for the club in a difficult time," Hiddink said.
"I'm very keen and I'm very motivated to get the last games done with a good
result and not let it slide away."
Hiddink is expected to leave Chelsea at the end of the season when Antonio
Conte takes his place as First Team Head Coach, but the 69-year-old was
hesitant to reveal precisely what his plans are.
"I know, I know [what I'll do]," he said. "Taking a bit of holiday. But it's
too early now, it's half-May and then we'll talk. Not today. I have a lot of
ambition here and I hope we can end the season with our chest a little bit
out front."
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