Insider book reveals secret of Hiddink’s success

Hiddink's had many books written about him in the last quarter of a century he's been coaching. But few, if any, have been written about the Dutchman's Russian adventure, which has culminated so far in his side-reaching the Euro 2008 semi-finals.

He has enjoyed a number of highs and lows in over two years as Russia's head coach – from the ecstasy of victories over England and the Netherlands in the Euros, to the defeat in Israel which almost cost Russia their place in that competition.
 
However, 61-year-old Guus says it is difficult to pinpoint which moment has given him the most satisfaction.

“I’m not thinking about just one game. What has made me proud is that a lot of people have got confidence and have discovered their potential - and we have to use this potential,” Hiddink said.

The man who wrote the book is in a particularly privileged position to get the inside details on Hiddink. Ilya Kazakov, the author, doubles up as Russia's football team press secretary.

“After the Euro 2008 Championship a lot of people asked me if I was going to write about the national team. I decided to write it because everyone has seen what Hiddink has done but nobody knows how,” Kazakov said.

Hiddink himself hasn’t read it yet as it is written in Russian. But he says he just needs more time.

However, attention will now turn to Russia's World Cup qualification campaign. They host their first training session on Tuesday ahead of their massive game in Germany at the weekend.

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