Guus Hiddink says physical approach important to Chelsea
Tuesday 1 March 2016 06:50, UK
Chelsea interim boss Guus Hiddink believes it important for his side to show a physical edge to compete in the Premier League.
Hiddink admits he had no problem when he witnessed a training ground bust-up between Diego Costa and Oscar not long after his arrival.
The Dutchman could tell there was no malice in the incident, and says the sort of commitment shown by Willian and others in recent weeks has been important to the team's improvement on the pitch.
When asked if he liked his players fighting, Hiddink said: "Yes, with respect.
"In the same second they [Oscar and Costa] knew, because they are friends, that they were threatening each other, and deep down asked 'what are we doing?'
"I like when they go on the edge. Not fighting but resistance. The best players in the league are also strong players, you feel that. There are a lot of benefits to gather when you are well equipped with your balance and your physical fitness."
"It's not always you have to be a big, big guy but when I see for instance, you see it often in the defensive part of the game.
"For instance Willian is not a big guy but is fighting into duels defensively as well. He's smart to do so and willing to do so. That's the modern footballer."
