Hiddink had been linked with England before McClaren took over

England comprehensively beat Israel 3-0 on Saturday to move third behind Russia - who beat Macedonia 3-0 - and group leaders Croatia in the Group E table.

"They clearly dominated," Hiddink told Radio 5live's Sportsweek.

"England did a very good job against Israel, who I know have potential if you let them play."

Interview: Russia boss Guus Hiddink

England won the game without key players in the form of the injured Wayne Rooney, Owen Hargreaves and Frank Lampard as well as the suspended Peter Crouch.

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Emile Heskey came in to partner Michael Owen in attack while Gareth Barry played alongside Steven Gerrard in midfield.

Hiddink, who was linked with the England job before Steve McClaren was appointed, insisted the replacements did not weaken the home side.

"The substitutes are big names in English football.

"They are super-motivated to do even better. They are doing very well, so are not a disadvantage for England."

England went into the Israel game with worries over their form after a recent 2-1 loss to Germany in a friendly.

I always like to start a game to win and at the end we will see Guus Hiddink

But Hiddink said: "I was impressed when I saw England play Germany.

"England created a lot of chances and were not lucky in finishing them off. Germany got two lucky goals, in my opinion, but England were impressive."

Hiddink believes qualification is between group leaders Croatia, Russia and England.

He said it would "not be very good" if he did not back his side to claim one of the top two qualifying places, while saying it would be tough to overtake Croatia.

"Croatia are in the lead and they don't drop many points," he added. "Everyone has to play everyone so it is very complicated until the end of the day.

"I would like to be there. I wish England are there but realistically you have to say Croatia is a very experienced team."

England are one point behind Russia going into Wednesday's game and Hiddink said: "I always like to start a game to win and at the end we will see."