Guus Hiddink Makes First Mistake In Impressive Chelsea FC Reign
Chelsea FC overturned a deficit earlier today as they continued their impressive form under Guus Hiddink. However, the boss did not hold back after the game.
Baba Rahman was at the centre of attention earlier this afternoon as his error gifted Southampton the opening goal in the contest. Chelsea would eventually win the game 2-1 but Guus Hiddink did not hold back when discussing the left-back in his post-match interview.
The Ghanaian was withdrawn at half-time and instead of taking the diplomatic route, the Dutchman plainly stated that Rahman’s mistake was the reason for his substitution.
"I don’t want to make a fake injury. I took him off because of the error. He has to cope with that. He was very down in the locker room about his mistake, but we have to make decisions like we did. – via the Evening Standard"
There is no doubt that Hiddink’s straight-talking is refreshing, but the interim boss could have handled the situation better. Baba Rahman is a new arrival and the lack of playing time that he was afforded under Jose Mourinho would have severely dented his confidence. As suggested by Hiddink’s comments, such a decision would not have helped.
Let’s take a look at the incident first.
An unwise header from the Ghanaian served the ball on a silver platter for Long, who clinically finished the chance and put the Saints 1-0 up just before the half-time whistle.
I am fully supportive of individual accountability and players taking responsibility for their errors, but Hiddink’s decision to bring Baba off seems somewhat excessive.
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Everyone makes errors occasionally but if they are infrequent and innocent, such castigation is unwarranted. This is especially valid in the Ghanaian’s case. Seemingly plucked out of nowhere, the youngster has been thrust into first team football through injuries, after being left in the cold by the previous manager. Having already had his fair share of doubters, the last thing he needs is for the scrutiny to increase.
While Hiddink may have been justified in bringing him off, perhaps it would have paid to be a tad less honest in this situation. Instead of publicly criticising the player, an excuse could have been provided before the performance was addressed behind closed doors.
The worst, but also encouraging, aspect of all this is that Hiddink has probably realised by now that he too has made a mistake. The manner in which he has conducted himself in both his Chelsea stints has been impeccable, so this should be labelled as a slip of the tongue.
Next: Chelsea FC 2-1 Southampton: 5 Talking Points
The Dutchman will likely spend the next few days working constructively with Rahman before starting him against Norwich on Tuesday. This is the best way to boost the youngster’s morale and given defensive injuries, Hiddink may not have any other choice anyway.