Chelsea out as Hiddink stays on with Russia

With club owner Roman Abramovich heavily involved in his country's national team and already paying half Hiddink's £1.2million-ayear salary, the 60-year-old Dutch coach was being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge when his current deal expires next year.

But Hiddink, whose side face England in a crucial Euro 2008 qualifier in Moscow next Wednesday, has effectively ruled himself out of the Chelsea running by agreeing a two-year extension.

"I am happy about that," he said. "The Russian FA is thinking about the future."

Sportsmail exclusively revealed earlier this week that another Dutchman, Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard, is being targeted as Jose Mourinho's long-term successor next summer.

Rijkaard will be reunited with his ex- Barca assistant Henk Ten Cate, Chelsea's new firstteam coach, with current boss Avram Grant reverting to his role as director of football.

Barcelona captain Carles Puyol believes Ten Cate will be one of Abramovich's most significant signings.

"He is a great coach with an excellent understanding of football," said Puyol. "He will be a great signing."

Meanwhile, Michael Ballack has told Chelsea he wants to stay for the rest of his career.

Despite being linked with a move to Real Madrid during a long spell out with ankle problems, the 31-yearold Germany captain has pledged his future to Chelsea for the final two years of his deal — and maybe more.

The midfielder said: "If I'm still fit when my contract runs out, why should I not play on here for another two years?"