Before last night, many of us had written off Chelsea as a dominant force in English and European football. Their performance against Liverpool however, means they are right back in football’s psyche; and Hiddink seems to have rekindled what Mourinho started  in those heady heights of a few years ago.

Hiddink whips Chelsea back into shape

Here are some pictures – never before released – of the Premier League’s forgotten men, in training, as you’ve never seen them before; which may explain why Chelsea have suddenly returned to winning ways under the guidance of Gus Hiddink. 

Hiddink's training methods have rekindled the desire at Chelsea

These pictures, taken by club photographer Darren Walsh and courtesy of Getty Images, show how the stars relax between matches and prepare for the big games with the Chelsea coaches and backroom staff. These have been supplied to The EFP by samsungfootball.co.uk. Please enjoy:

Hiddink's arrival signalled the end of the cold war at Chelsea

In-form Didier Drogba: just like old times at Chelsea FC

Gentle Hiddink is forming a friendly partnership with 'Butch' Wilkins

John Terry is having to relearn the ropes all over again, under Hiddink

Hiddink and Wilkins have made sure fun has returned to training

Last night’s shock win at Anfield reinforced widespread belief that Hiddink  is as good as it gets in the world of football coaching. What impresses so much about this extraordinary man is the fact he combines tactical nous with astute man management; and his methods seem to give his teams an edge wherever, with whoever, he coaches.

No matter where Hiddink has gone, he has got teams playing modern, attacking, and most importantly, winning football; and this demands maximum respect among his fellow professionals. Hiddink gets the best possible outcome from the group of players he is working with; simple.

Judging by the form of Barcelona, and how far behind they are in the title race, it’s unlikely Chelsea will win either of the top trophies this season.  But, if Hiddink stays, which may depend on whether Chelsea can win this season’s CL, Chelsea fans can expect an iminent return to the glory days they tasted under Mourinho. However, if Chelsea fail to win a trophy under Hiddink this season, and Hiddink subsequently leaves; they might not get the chance for a very long time.

For the moment at least, and for Chelsea’s resurgence, Gus Hiddink deserves all the plaudits.

Start Slide Show with PicLens Lite