---
title: "Hiddink happy with youngster’s progression"
canonical: "https://readchelsea.com/2016/01/18/hiddink-happy-youngsters-progression/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Ryan Darby"
section: "Chelsea News"
published: "2016-01-18T11:18:49Z"
modified: "2016-01-18T11:18:49Z"
---

# Hiddink happy with youngster’s progression

Chelsea interim boss, Guus Hiddink has revealed he is happy with the way young French defender, Kurt Zouma is progressing, according to [London24](https://www.london24.com/sport/football/clubs/chelsea/he_s_progressing_very_fast_chelsea_boss_hints_at_key_role_for_emerging_star_1_4382926).

Since Hiddink’s arrival at the club, Zouma has had an extended run of games, partnering John Terry at the heart of the Chelsea defence.

Not only has he had a run of games in the side, he has impressed the manager and kept his place in the starting XI, keeping England international, Gary Cahill out of the team.

Hiddink believes the player still has a lot to learn as a defender, but playing alongside Terry will only benefit the 21-year-old according to the Dutchman.

He said:

> John Terry is progressing Kurt, I saw him from distance previously and sometimes he was a little bit out of position, but he’s progressed very fast in the last year. We need those kind of players, but John is also doing his job defensively very well. With his age and experience John is much more of a leader.

![Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Sport](https://cdn.readeverything.co/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/504804260.jpg)

Hiddink added that he doesn’t believe Zouma will directly replace Terry in the future:

> Kurt is a very young player, not the type of leader John is yet. Many, many years with this huge experience. Kurt has a different way of playing.

Zouma will be keen to get as much game time this season with the Euros, which is being held in his home country, fast approaching. The central defender has made two appearances for the French national side.