Hiddink blasts 'negative' England
Ian Ladyman Tuesday, June 25, 2002

Hiddink: 'England were the worst' (Empics)

South Korea coach Guus Hiddink yesterday tested English sympathy towards his under-fire squad to the limit by labelling Sven Goran Eriksson's team the most negative in the World Cup. Hiddink has spent two days fending off suggestions that his team have profited from favourable refereeing decisions in beating Portugal, Italy and Spain on the way to their semi-final clash with Germany in Seoul today.

But the Dutchman is now in danger of alienating countries right across Europe after an astonishing attack that also included suggestions that tonight's opponents will cheat in order to win. Hiddink said yesterday:

'All the European sides in this tournament have played defensive football. They all look like they are scared.' Hiddink was in charge of the Holland team beaten 4-1 by Terry Venables' England team in the 1996 European Championship and has made it clear that he believes Eriksson's modern version to be a pale imitation. England were the worst. I find it impossible to think that they are leaving the tournament with their heads held high,' he added.'They spent all their games running backwards. Their front man Emile Heskey was the best defender they had. He spent all his time playing 18 yards in front of his own goalkeeper. I ask myself: "Is this the same England that had a reputation for attacking so much? Not even when they were 2-1 down to Brazil and playing against 10 men did you see that. It's terrible to see England playing football like that. I did not see one urgent, long, high ball into the box. That would not be my way of being kicked out of the tournament."

With regard to today's rivals, he said: 'We must look out for the Germans diving around the penalty box. They are strong in the air and not afraid to dive. Their main quality is an ability to deliver good free-kicks and corners. I must say that I don't know why people play football the way the Germans do. I want results but prefer to get them with nice football. 'I wonder what German training must be like. I must admit I wonder whether their players are having any fun.' Given such a damning view of his opponents, it is no surprise that Hiddink feels South Korea could spring another upset. And midfielder Park Ji-Sung echoed his coach's mood, claiming Germany had weaknesses which could be exploited. 'Our speed will overwhelm them,' he declared confidently. 'If we play a good game, we will see a good result. 'They seem to be weak on the flanks and if we can attack them down those areas, that could help us win.'