Hiddink to stay as Russia coach through 2010

Guus Hiddink will extend his contract as Russia manager through 2010, the Dutchman said yesterday, ending media speculation he could leave to coach elsewhere in the near future.

Hiddink, 60, agreed a new deal after meeting Russian soccer chief Vitaly Mutko on Monday.

"We had discussions with Mr Mutko and we agreed for me to stay on for two more years," Hiddink told a news conference.

Russia face England in their decisive Euro 2008 Group E qualifier in Moscow next Wednesday, needing victory to have any real hope of reaching next year's finals.

Russia dropped to third, two points behind England and five adrift of pacesetters Croatia, after losing 3-0 against England at Wembley last month.

"No doubt, this is a key game for us, the one we must win," Hiddink said. "But regardless of next week's outcome we must have a bigger picture in mind concerning Russian football.

"As far as myself, I've said many times I'm very happy here, I enjoy being in Russia, learning a new culture, a new language, so for me it was an easy decision to make," he added.