Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill believes Guus Hiddink would be unable to manage both Russia and Chelsea on a permanent basis. He said: "The dual role is incredibly hard. I think there might be a reason for doing it on a short-term basis (at Chelsea).

"But overall, I think it would be very hard to combine an international management role with one in the Premier League over the fullness of time.

"I'm not sure that's what they are looking at (at Chelsea).

Eventually - when you lose a game or two - someone will accuse you of not spending enough time in one particular camp.

"I think it is exceptionally difficult. Nothing is impossible. Over a short period of time, I'm sure it could work but over a three or four-year period, I think that would be particularly difficult."