Old Dutch master Guus Hiddink ruined my Euro 2008 dream, admits Hesselink

Jul 27 2008 By Mark Guidi

GUTTED Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink admits Guus Hiddink wrecked his Euro dream - because the wily coach knew his homeland's gameplan inside out.

Dutchman Hiddink led Russia to a stunning 3-1 extra-time victory over Hesselink's Holland in the 2008 quarter-finals.

Celtic star Jan admits his team were out-thought and said: "We were playing well in the group games.

"After beating Italy and France there was a great feeling in the camp. But we just didn't come out against Russia.

"It had a lot to do with Hiddink. He knew exactly what we were going to do, focused on that and didn't let us play. In extra-time Russia were just sharper and fitter.

"I had dreamt about lifting the cup and being part of the quarter or semi-finals but after 55 minutes the subs had all been made.

"In the last 15 minutes we played a few long balls I could have got involved in.

"I've played at the Euros which is nice but I'd like to have had more game time.

"Now I hope to be part of new boss Bert van Marwijk's plans.

Maybe he'll freshen things up and I really want to be selected to face Scotland in March."