By dixon9
May 8 2009
Guus Hiddink outlined his support for striker Didier Drogba and understandably snapped at reporters after being asked the same question on five different occasions during a pre-match press conference.
The focus from the media, not surprisingly, was concentrated on the after-match incidents on Wednesday night’s champion’s league match against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge.
Hiddink stated that he did not agree with the public slating orchestrated by the media of Drogba re the Ivorian´s swearing during the extreme emotion he was experiencing (Personally, after the complete farce by the referee and obvious influence of UEFA I can’t say I blame him either).
After repeated questioning on Drogba Hiddink responded with "I have answered this question five times already."
As for the possible UEFA punishment:"They can do it - they have the power, but take into consideration, the emotion of the injustice that was felt.
"It’s up to them. But people have apologised for their behaviour which is the first step toward the first thing in life. I do not forget so easily, I said I could understand the reaction from the players though.
"If we lose in a normal way then we are sad, but the way we were eliminated gave this reaction. We talked about this – he Drogba must not react like he did - but I can understand these emotions. I empathise."
Pleasingly, Hiddink stated that he would not support any internal punishment from the club on Drogba (contrary to various press reports in the media):"I don't think so,” said the Dutchman.
“Apologising is openly a big step forward. We have to go on."

Interestingly, Hiddink confirmed that he dos not make recommendations on what players should be offloaded in the summer:
"That's not up to me, to be honest."
Hiddink also denied that owner Roman Abramovich was angry with certain player’s behaviour after the match (again, contrary to what the media are claiming):
"He did not give this comment that you are suggesting to me.
“I spoke with him yesterday; I was disappointed we did not take our chances. He said Chelsea gave a very good performance, and I agreed.”

