Source: Telegraph
Chelsea appointing Guus Hiddink sparks protests in Moscow
Following the sacking of Luiz Felipe Scolari, the Russian Football Federation granted Hiddink permission to combine the role at Stamford Bridge with his ongoing duty of guiding Russia to the World Cup 2010 finals. [LNB]But demonstrator's have vented their anger and directed their protests largely towards the RFU sponsor and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich. [LNB]According to police at the scene, banners saying 'RFU don't lie down for Abramovich' were on display as well as demands for RFU president Vitali Mutko to be sacked. [LNB]Speaking to the Mail[LNB] one protester said: "Quite clearly it was taken under pressure from the RFU sponsor Roman Abramovich who also happens to be Chelsea owner. [LNB]"Like the majority of football experts and fans in Russia, Left Front members are convinced that his work in London is going to make it impossible for Hiddink to manage the Russian team effectively. [LNB]"By letting themselves be pushed around by this oligarch the RFU bosses hurt the interests of our national team, which is unacceptable."[LNB]For now however, it seems Russian fans need not worry that Hiddink will be in London much long after the end of the season. As he prepared for his first Premier League match in charge against Aston Villa the Dutchman reiterated his commitment to the national team. [LNB]"I will help out until the end of the season, only to the end of the season," he said. [LNB]"I have my full-time commitment with the Russian federation which I will fulfil. I will go back in March and also at the end of May. [LNB]"I'm here until the end of the season and with regards to who Chelsea are signing after that, it's up to them not me."[LNB]
