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Russia could be Euro 2008 surprise: Gullit
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Photo: charlton-athletic.co.uk
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Moscow: Russia could be the dark horse for the Euro 2008
title, former Netherlands captain Ruud Gullit said.
Gullit felt fellow Dutchman Guus Hiddink, who coaches Russia, has instilled
a great deal of belief in the team.
" I wouldn't be surprised if Russia reached the Euro 2008 quarter-finals
or even went further," said Gullit, who was voted European Footballer
of the Year in 1987, the year before he captained the Dutch to the European
Championship title.
"The Russians have always had good players, so they can very well
be a surprise team next year in Austria and Switzerland.
"Besides, Hiddink is an extremely lucky coach and that makes Russia
even more dangerous."
At Euro 2008, the Russians have been drawn in Group D along with champions
Greece, Spain and Sweden.
Gullit, 45, who previously coached Chelsea, Newcastle United and Feyenoord,
was appointed coach of Los Angeles Galaxy last month.
Other Dutch coaches have also made a big impact in Russia.
Dick Advocaat last month led Zenit St Petersburg to their first Russian
title in nearly a quarter of a century in his first full season with the
club.
"As I've said, I'm not surprised by Hiddink's work, but I am a bit
surprised by Advocaat's performance in Russia," said Gullit.
"I didn't think he (Advocaat) would adapt so quickly here."
Asked if he would ever consider coaching in Russia himself, Gullit said:
"Why not. The Russian league is getting better and better and it
seems that the money is not a problem here.
"Besides, I really like Moscow," said the Dutchman, who has
visited the Russian capital twice in the last three weeks.
"It's a really buzzing city with lots of places to go and plenty
to do. The only problem it's a bit too cold for me."
Zeenews.com,
December 19, 2007
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