The Serve

FFA contacts Hiddink

Reports of a rift between former Socceroos coach Guus Hiddink and the Russian Football Union have prompted the Football Federation to enquire about the availability of the World Cup hero.

“Well, I’ve read some reports that Guus may be in the frame,” FFA CEO Ben Buckley said.

Hiddink was supposedly set to extend his deal with Russia until the 2010 World Cup, however the Football Union has stalled with its contract negotiations, coinciding with the national team’s messy finish to Euro 2008, albeit successful.

“We’ve made contact with his agent to see if the press reports are a tactical exercise on their behalf, or there’s some genuine issues,” Buckley said.

The FFA CEO says he is still awaiting a response. England is also said to be keen on chasing the Dutch master.

Aside from Hiddink, the FFA is keeping its cards close to chest on a potential new coach, as the clock continues to count down ahead of the Socceroos first World Cup qualifying match, a home game against Qatar in February.

“We’ve had some contact with some well known coaches. I don’t want to talk about anyone too specifically,” Buckley said.

It is also evident that the FFA is still ropable with Dutchman Dick Advocaat, who recently turned his back on the Socceroos to continue his career in Russian club football. The FFA is adamant it will take it’s compensation case to FIFA.

“I think it goes beyond the issue of compensation. It needs to be looked at in terms of a coach putting a football association under duress,” Buckley said.

“There’s a principle at stake.”

Buckley also defended his organisation’s handling of the affair.

“There’s not much more you can do than have a watertight contract. Short of having the person spirited away, I’m not sure what you can do,” Buckley said.