Hiddink has had regular meetings with Roman Abramovich
Guus Hiddink has ended speculation linking him with a move to Chelsea by extending his contract as Russia coach until the summer of 2010.
The 60-year-old's relationship with Blues owner Roman Abramovich had seen the Dutchman linked with taking over as boss at Stamford Bridge.
But he will now lead Russia through to the next World Cup in South Africa.
Hiddink signed a two-year contract with Russia after leading Australia to the second round of last year's World Cup.
Hiddink's agent Cees van Nieuwenhuizen said two weeks ago that both the Russian Football Federation and Hiddink were committed to extending the contract regardless of the result of Euro 2008 qualification.
While Hiddink is reportedly paid half his wages by Russian billionaire Abramovich, van Nieuwenhuizen said: "I think Abramovich would not make any friends if he would steal away Guus Hiddink from the Russian Football Federation."
Hiddink admits he has been in contact with Abramovich, but only about his Russian football role.
Despite his vast wealth, he doesn't try to abuse his position or status
Russia coach Guus Hiddink on Roman Abramovich
"I have met Abramovich five times but we have never discussed the Chelsea job," Hiddink told the Times.
"We have a project to reshape Russian football by 2014 - given Abramovich's long-term commitment and vision, it is very unlikely he would disrupt that."
Hiddink's comments come as Chelsea are set to appoint Ajax manager Henk ten Cate as their assistant boss - partly as a result of Hiddink's recommendation.
Hiddink says his meetings with Abramovich are likely to continue, as the Russian billionaire contributes to his salary, but he receives no interference when it comes to team matters.
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