Hiddink tired of exit talk

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First-half goals from Stefan de Vrij and Davy Klaassen gave the Dutch a fine victory over the reigning European champions in Amsterdam.

Hiddink’s men, however, could only salvage a late draw at home to Turkey in their European Qualifier on Saturday and they are now five points adrift of second-placed Iceland in Group A.

Tuesday’s win was a morale-boosting victory for the Netherland’s coach, but he refused to be drawn into speculation over his position.

“Don’t keep asking me if I am staying on as coach,” he told reporters after the game.           

“There is no weight fallen off my back now. I never felt any weight on my back. We were always very keen to win this game and I saw in the first half a side who were highly motivated.             

“This gives a lot of confidence to the team, we must regard this match as a good start for our next qualifier.”

‘Street fights’             

Hiddink has faced criticism in the Dutch press, including from high-profile former players Johan Cruyff and Wim van Hanegem, but the 68-year-old would not be drawn into replying.             

“I have no desire to get involved in any street fights,” he added. “In the end it has nothing to do with football. I want to talk about football only. Let’s rather talk about that.”             

But he did have criticism for the Amsterdam ArenA crowd, who jeered Spanish substitute Andres Iniesta whenever he was on the ball.             

The Barcelona midfielder scored the winning goal in extra time as Spain beat the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final in Johannesburg, and Hiddink was not impressed with the reception he received when he came on for the last 15 minutes.

“If such a world-class player is whistled at, supporters must be ashamed,” he said.             

“I had to ask people on my bench why they were doing that. I didn’t understand. Iniesta is not only a fantastic footballer but also a great person. I found the reaction to him out of line and shameful.”