Emotional farewell for Hiddink

30 May 2009 20:13
Guus Hiddink admitted he was 'sad but satisfied' after ending his Chelsea reign with FA Cup glory. The Blues fell behind to Louis Saha's record-breaking goal after just 25 seconds at Wembley but bounced back to defeat Everton 2-1. Didier Drogba headed Chelsea level in the 21st minute and Frank Lampard then netted a stunning winner in the second half. It was Hiddink's final match at the Chelsea helm and he concedes there was a lot of emotion in the camp as he bid farewell to his players after the final whistle. The experienced tactician, who took charge at Stamford Bridge in February, will resume his role as full-time Russia boss on Sunday. Hiddink said: "There were some extra-normal circumstances in the dressing room. We have a multi-cultural squad and we had a nice dance party with the staff. "Roman (Abramovich) danced with us. He enjoyed it. He was in the middle of the party. He is not a man of many words but there were some beautiful pictures. "It was emotional in the dressing room. I got my players together and thanked them in an emotional way for how we have worked together." The Dutchman added: "I feel sadness because the attitude of the players was superb, but leaving with silverware gives a feeling of satisfaction. This is the best way. The standard of this club means it must win some silverware each year." Hiddink singled Lampard out for special praise after the midfielder scored his 20th goal of the season. "It was a typical, beautiful Frank Lampard goal," he said. "When the team needs a turning point he is there in key moments. That is the benchmark for a world class player." Hiddink did, however, admit there was still a feeling of frustration at not making it through to the UEFA Champions League final, which saw Barcelona overcome Manchester United in midweek. "It would have been more perfect if we had been somewhere else a few days ago," he said. "I would have loved to have played Man Utd. It was almost a perfect goodbye. Not winning today would have left unfinished business."

Source: SKY_Sports