The former Chelsea and the Russian national team manager Guus Hiddink has said that he is extremely confident that the Russian winger Yuri Zhirkov will once again be playing at his best.

The Russian winger was recently signed by the Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala, who also managed to bring in the Dutch manager Guus Hiddink. Speaking after the 1-0 win over Alania Vladikavkaz, the former Chelsea manager said that he is extremely delighted to have Zhirkov in his team. He has identified him as one of the best left-sided midfielders in the world.

Even though Yuri Zhirkov spent most of his three seasons at the English club Chelsea as the backup for Ashley Cole, Hiddink reckons that Yuri Zhirkov can make it back to his best and is clearly showing signs of doing so. He has called the midfielder was one of the footballers with a proper knowledge about the game. Even though he has improved a lot since his arrival, the Dutchman has said that Zhirkov can improve even more provided he plays with a little more hard work. Since Hiddink arrived at the club, they have been an extremely good form.

They are currently top of the table with a two-point advantage over CSKA Moscow. “I do not want to single anyone out in particular but I think Zhirkov is progressing well. I think he has done a fantastic job until now although he can play harder, I know. And when he will find form, we will see the real Zhirkov. We were expecting a very difficult game with a team that plays with confidence at home and away. I think in the beginning of the match we surprised Alania with our good attack. We are happy with a good result,” said Hiddink. The club will now face Volga Nizhny Novgorod in the next match.