Guus Hiddink ready to replace Benitez as Liverpool boss

Former Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink has said that he would accept the Liverpool job should the beleaguered club dispense with Rafa Benitez.

Hiddink, who is currently managing the Russian national team, has been identified as a possible replacement for Benitez following their dismal performance in the season so far.

The 63-year-old, however, said he would first seek the approval of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who was instrumental in his appointment as the Russian coach.

“I have to speak to the federation president before making any decision on my future, but it is true that I would like to coach in England again,” The Sun quoted Hiddink as saying.

“After all the support I've received from Roman Abramovich, I owe it to them to discuss anything with them first,” he added.

The Reds, runners-up in the English Premier League last term, are languishing in seventh place this season and are 12 points adrift of leaders Chelsea.

More worryingly, they are five points behind Manchester City, who occupy the crucial fourth and final Champions League spot.