His determination and fortitude had helped him pass what was arguably his biggest managerial challenge.

The Dutch squad, perenially a group of talented individuals who failed to play together racked by internal arguments and disputes, finally appeared to be a cohesive unit under his reign.

Hiddink wasn't overawed by the prima donna behaviour of many of the talented Dutch players. The fact that he sent Edgar Davids home from Euro 96 after the pair clashed is proof enough of that.

And after succeeding with the Oranje, Hiddink perhaps found it difficult to motivate himself. His stints at Madrid and Betis were a reflection of that.

In the summer of 2000, rumours were rife about his future with Scottish club Celtic.