Hiddink has his work cut out with U21s

Guus Hiddink has been hired as head coach of China's under-21 soccer team, tasked by the Chinese Football Association with improving the squad's quality and confidence ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Announcing the 71-year-old Dutchman's appointment on Monday, the CFA said: "To prepare for the 2020 Tokyo Games, Hiddink has been appointed as head coach of China's under-21 soccer team and will officially lead the team for training and competition, beginning in October.

"The majority of the under-21 team is mainly formed by players who are born in 1997. In the days to come, under the leadership of Hiddink and his coaching team, the under-21 boys will pursue their Olympic dreams."