SOCCER: Chelsea have confirmed Russia coach Guus Hiddink will manage the club until the end of the season. The Stamford Bridge club have turned to the 62-year-old Dutchman following the departure of Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Hiddink will combine both roles, something he has done in the past with Australia and PSV Eindhoven.

It is unclear whether or not Hiddink’s stay at Chelsea may be extended beyond the end of the campaign but it is thought he remains committed to his role with Russia.

Chelsea confirmed they were given permission to talk to Hiddink just yesterday. But with his close links to Blues owner Roman Abramovich, it was never likely to be a lengthy dialogue.

Hiddink has never before coached in England and has been out of club management since leaving PSV Eindhoven to take over Australia in 2006.

The Chelsea statement, released via their official website www.chelseafc.com, read: “Chelsea FC is delighted to confirm Guus Hiddink will become temporary coach until the end of the season.

“He is due to meet the players later this week. The club would like to take this opportunity to thank the Russian Football Union for their co-operation and understanding.”

Hiddink is currently in Turkey with the Russian national side and is likely to fly to England tomorrow, before linking up with his new charges for the first time on Friday.

Chelsea are currently seven points behind Barclays Premier League pacesetters Manchester United, having played a game more.