Derby County manager Phillip Cocu told Ian Holloway on the EFL show how former Chelsea manager Guss Hiddink had the biggest influence on his career.
Cocu took charge of the Rams in July following the departure of Frank Lampard.
It has been a difficult start for the former Barcelona midfielder. A lack of pre-season, questionable recruitment and injuries to key players have hindered his time at Pride Park.
But recent form suggests Derby are on the up. Speaking to the EFL show, Cocu names Hiddink as his greatest influence in a glowing report of the former Chelsea boss.
For me, a very important manager in my career has been [Guus] Hiddink. I had a good relationship with him. His ability of moving around inside a team and taking care of all the players is top level. He’s a great champion, he gave me insight into coaching when I came back from Barcelona to PSV. He got me more interested.
MORE DERBY STORIES
Guus Hiddink helps mould Derby County boss Phillip Cocu:
Hiddink, 72, has manage eight clubs and five nations during his career to date.
But most English fans will recognise him following his two interim spells as Chelsea manager. He took over the Blues in 2008-09 after Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Hiddink lost only one of 22 games in charge of Chelsea. He helped the Blues win the 2009 FA Cup final over Everton and finished his spell with a 72% win percentage.
Cocu was managed by Hiddink at PSV. He cites his man-management skills as a key component, and Cocu has shown a similar ability during his early tenure at Pride Park.
Players such as Chris Martin and Curtis Davies have come back into the fold after a long time out, and they look like they have never been away. That’s down to excellent management.
Cocu says he tries to view every player from the position they play. As a former versatile player, his insight and coaching ability could help the Rams stand out from the rest.
Also see: Krystian Bielik suffers injury on internatonal duty.
Also see: International free agent confirms he has held talks with Derby County and Stoke City.