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Hiddink: We're still in title race

20 Feb 2009


Guus Hiddink is determined to ensure Chelsea finish the season with some silverware but refuses to prioritise any competition.

The Blues sit 10 points behind Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League but Hiddink, in his first press conference as Chelsea's new boss, refuses to concede the title race ahead of Saturday's crunch clash at Aston Villa.

"Of course my role is a challenge, although time is limited. We are still in three competitions - Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup," he said. "We're 10 points down on Manchester United, which will be very difficult but we will give it a try."

He added: "In the other two competitions Chelsea are still in the race. That's the challenge, I'm not just here to pass time until the end of the season.

"The players are used to winning trophies so let's try and repeat it. If they don't you can't be happy.

"The priority is Villa Park. It's the cliche answer - the next game is the most important. After that it's Juventus.

"You're obliged to yourself and your crowd to prioritise the next battle.

"Realistically it's difficult to catch United. If you're leading with 10 points you feel comfortable. But things can change in a few minutes.

"I've made up that ground before in a different league. With PSV, we were not that worried but there were some narrow escapes in the last few seasons."

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