Guus Hiddink says Chelsea v Manchester United is still a big occasion

06 February 2016 10:23

Guus Hiddink maintains Chelsea's clash with Manchester United on Sunday is a big deal, despite the sides' seasons of struggle.

Hiddink is unbeaten in seven Premier League games, winning two, since replacing Jose Mourinho, who has been linked with the manager's job at Manchester United.

Louis van Gaal has bristled at suggestions his job is under scrutiny as United have toiled this term.

Chelsea entered this weekend's fixtures in 13th place, with Sunday's visitors to Stamford Bridge 10 points behind Leicester in fifth on Saturday morning.

"This is a big match," Hiddink said.

"Manchester (United) has to compete and likes to compete for the title, this year. And they must go into the Champions League positions.

"You know the recent history of this club. We're getting back a bit on track, although I'd like to have a few more victories.

"The team is step by step more stable and now we hope to go into a beautiful springtime."

Chelsea drew 0-0 at Watford on Wednesday night, with Diego Costa denied a late winner.

Hiddink repeated his recent call for others - made prior to the FA Cup win at MK Dons, when Oscar scored a hat-trick - to share the goalscoring burden with the striker.

"I said before the FA Cup game we must not just depend on Diego for goals," Hiddink added.

"They responded, Oscar responded after that. We need the attackers to finish it off.

"I am not worried when one game (Costa) doesn't score. If he doesn't score other players must take the opportunity."

Eden Hazard scored his first Chelsea goal of the season - and for 31 games - at stadium:mk and could start in the Premier League for the first time in five weeks against United.

"Bringing him back at a good level is key for us," Hiddink added.

"And not taking big, big risks, because many games are coming up and we need him."

Pedro (groin) is expected to be fit after missing the midweek draw at Watford, but Loic Remy (calf) and fellow striker Radamel Falcao (thigh) remain out and Alexandre Pato is not yet match-fit so will not be in the squad.

Source: PA