Advocaat confirmed for Russia job

Dick Advocaat is to replace fellow Dutchman Guus Hiddink as Russia coach, the Russian federation (RFS) confirmed today.

Hiddink took charge of his final match in March, a 1-1 draw with Hungary, but has remained in his role until his contract formally expires on July 15.

Advocaat was an easy choice for RFS president Sergei Fursenko, who worked with the 62-year-old at Zenit St Petersburg until he left the club last October to take on a dual role as AZ Alkmaar and Belgium coach.

Advocaat resigned as Belgium coach in April, and then announced he would leave AZ at the end of the season.

“Advocaat’s agreement with [the] RFS is for four years and comes into force as soon as Guus Hiddink’s deal expires,” Fursenko said on uefa.com.

“Advocaat is a workaholic, I know that from my own experience. He knows Russian football in and out, every player in detail. He doesn’t need anything explaining; he can start work right away.

“Dick understands his task is to qualify for the coming European Championship and World Cup and to produce decent results there.”

Advocaat has a lengthy resume which includes several clubs and national teams, including Holland, South Korea, PSV Eindhoven, Rangers, Borussia Monchengladbach and the United Arab Emirates.

During his time with Russia, he won the league title, UEFA Cup as well as Russian and UEFA Super Cups.