“I must say that I use [this time] now to get some young players on board,” said Hiddink after a pride-harming defeat at the hands of Manchester City. Hiddink has made it clear that he will be giving youngsters the opportunity to prove themselves as the season is in the final weeks.
Hiddink doesn’t rule out the possibility of them being outplayed, but emphasises on helping the young players to get experience by playing them against top sides in the competition. Hiddink has secured a mid-table finish for Chelsea and with no silverware to fight for, he recommends his players to show passion and character.
Players like Bertrand Traore, Baba Rahman and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have enjoyed the playing time under Hiddink. Loftus-Cheek has shown great character in his play and has made the most of his chances.
Hiddink’s decision of giving youngsters the chance might well prove to be a reason for successive defeats, but the Dutchman isn’t afraid to do so even in his remaining games, he clearly states. He is giving Chelsea management and Conte a clear idea about the potential of youngsters.
Giving them the playing time will make things clear for Conte regarding which players are prepared to face the Premier League challenges and which still need experience to grow.
