Anelka calls for stability

31 May 2009 15:58
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka wants the club's next manager to be in the job for the long haul. The Blues are on the lookout for a new boss as Guus Hiddink's short-term deal reached its conclusion following Saturday's FA Cup final triumph over Everton. The Dutchman proved to be a popular choice among the Chelsea squad, helping to bring the best out of a number of the club's underperforming stars. However, following his appointment in February, he had always made it clear that his role would only be temporary, as he combined his duties at Stamford Bridge with those with the Russia national team. Hiddink was Chelsea's fourth manager in the space of two seasons, following Jose Mourinho, Avram Grant and Luiz Felipe Scolari, and Anelka knows stability is now required if the club are to challenge for major honours on a consistent basis. Influence "It was a great way to say goodbye to Guus. He has had a major influence on the team and the cup was our way to say thank you to him," the France international said in the wake of the 2-1 victory over the Toffees at Wembley. "We will miss him, and we hope that maybe in time he will come back. Why not? "But we know he will now not be with us next season. It could be (AC Milan coach Carlo) Ancelotti next, and he would be a good choice, but whoever comes in we will do our best for him and the club. "We need someone who knows English football, who knows about the English spirit and this club. "We have had several people in charge in a short time. But it is better for the players if the new man has more time, and that he is here for the long term."

Source: SKY_Sports