Pato was ‘suffering’ before debut, says Hiddink

Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink said he was pleased Alexandre Pato’s hard work on the training ground was rewarded with a debut goal against Aston Villa.

The Brazilian, a January loan signing from Corinthians, had been an unused substitute three times before finally making his first appearance when Loic Remy limped out during the first half at Villa Park.

He tucked away a penalty, awarded after a foul by Aly Cissokho, as Chelsea won 4-0.

Hiddink said Pato had been “suffering” during the intense fitness sessions needed to get him up to speed but was now ready to play a part in the final weeks of the season.

He explained: “I could have brought him on earlier [in previous games] but then he would have been killed.

“He should have his basic physical condition and then on top of that he can show his quality.

“The players, they see him suffering, literally, when we make a regime for him – training with the first team but also doing extra work with the fitness coaches.

“You suffer if you get a tough programme. The other players see that, they recognise that situation and that’s why there was relief when he scored his first goal.

“It was not the toughest game, you have to take that into consideration, but I’m happy to see him make his first step.”

Hiddink said he felt the game was killed off by Pato’s penalty and was pleased to quell any response bottom-of-the-table Villa may have shown following the sacking of manager Remi Garde.

The Dutchman added: “They have had their change of manager and you can always wait for a reaction of the team.

“We didn’t want to let that happen and killed the game off in the first part with good football, defending well, trying to press high and getting the goals. It was over after the second goal.”