Guus Hiddink to leave Dutch coaching post - reports

Under-pressure Netherlands coach Guus Hiddink, whose side have struggled in qualifying for Euro 2016, is to step down, according to Dutch media reports on Monday

The Hague: Under-pressure Netherlands coach Guus Hiddink, whose side have struggled in qualifying for Euro 2016, is to step down, according to Dutch media reports on Monday.


Guus Hiddink. Pic/AFP 

Anonymous sources from within the Dutch Football Federation (KNVB) claimed that Hiddink's assistant Danny Blind will "directly" replace him, according to the daily De Telegraaf, public television station NOS and specialist magazine Voetbal International. The same sources claimed that an official announcement will be made later on Monday or on Tuesday morning.

The Oranje finished third at last year's World Cup under Louis van Gaal but under Hiddink their form in the qualifying campaign for next year's European Championship in France has been poor. With four matches remaining, the Netherlands are third in qualifying Group A with 10 points, three points behind the Czech Republic and five adrift of surprise leaders Iceland.

Only the top two and the best third-placed side from the nine groups qualify automatically for Euro 2016, with the remaining third-placed finishers going into play-offs. Hiddink, 68, has overseen four wins and five defeats in 10 games since returning for a second spell as Dutch coach last summer.

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