Guus Hiddink spoke to the press following his side’s 0-1 win at the Emirates Stadium against Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, thanks to a goal from Spanish striker Diego Costa.
Arsenal were reduced to 10-men in the first half as Per Mertesacker took out Costa who was heading towards the goal. The German defender was the last man as he wiped out the former Atletico Madrid striker, therefore, had to go.
As the Gunners were sorting out a replacement at the back, Chelsea started to bundle on the pressure. Gabriel Paulista came on to replace Oliver Giroud, something the Arsenal fans weren’t happy with.
It wasn’t long after that the Blues found their winning goal, with Branislav Ivanovic’s searching cross found Costa who swept the ball home.
Chelsea continue their unbeaten streak since Jose Mourinho was sacked, and Hiddink was pleased with his team’s performance this afternoon.
Guus Hiddink: “I think it is a spectacular result. I am proud of the guys for performing as they did." #ARSCHE pic.twitter.com/jfbgaubxXG
— Premier League (@premierleague) January 24, 2016
The interim boss then went on to discuss what the future could hold for the West London side, if they keep momentum on their side and keep the unbeaten streak going.
More Hiddink: "If we stay unbeaten and win, the top four is possible, but it’s a big gap.”
— Premier League (@premierleague) January 24, 2016
However, the Dutchman thought that his side could have probably ended the game with two or three goals just to see out the result. The only thing he thought he could really criticise.
Guus says the only thing he could criticise a bit was not going for the kill. #CFC
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 24, 2016
Hiddink also highlighted that Cesc Fabregas’ season is clearly picking up game-by-game, and plays well when the side is in balance.
Guus says Cesc Fabregas continues to improve and he could play well in a balanced display. #CFC
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 24, 2016
Speaking about the red card incident, that of which Arsene Wenger said Diego Costa played for the red card, Hiddink disagreed and complimented the pass from Cesc Fabregas.
https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/691328992054513665
On the other incident, Hiddink wasn’t completey sure if he agrees with the referee or not. Was it a penalty for Cesc?
Guus says he hasn't seen the replay but he has doubts over another decision not to give Fabregas a penalty. #CFC
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 24, 2016
At least it wasn’t the feared hamstring that forced Diego Costa to make way for Loic Remy in the second half, but the knock on his knee that he took will be assessed.
Guus reports that Diego Costa has a small injury on his knee which will be checked. #CFC
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 24, 2016
