Hiddink’s warning for Chelsea players

Guus Hiddink has told Chelsea’s players they must prove their desire to play for the club.

Several of last season’s key players have been criticised during a miserable season for the champions so far.

The poor results led to Jose Mourinho being sacked as manager last week, angering many fans who made their feelings clear by booing Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa during Saturday’s home win against Sunderland.

Hiddink has since returned to Stamford Bridge as interim manager, having performed a similar role at Chelsea in 2009.

And the Dutchman said: “I want everyone to look in the mirror, not just for two seconds but longer, and see what anyone can contribute to the way up.

“I told them to look in the mirror and see if you can be ultra-critical and give the best of yourself to the team.

“There must be a great desire to play. If you don’t have that desire, please knock on my door and we’ll talk – but we’ll talk briefly.”

Hiddink’s previous spell in charge of the Blues was a success – they won the FA Cup and lost just one of his 22 matches at the helm.

Now he has the task of lifting Chelsea, who are currently 15th in the Premier League, away from the wrong end of the table.

“I shouldn’t be here (because Chelsea should not be struggling), but the reality is that I am here and I am glad to be here,” Hiddink said.

“I have a love for the club and working with the players is always a pleasure.”