Hiddink will return to his full-time role as Russia coach after Chelsea's FA Cup final clash with Everton on May 30, but he was given a suitably upbeat send-off at Stamford Bridge today as Malouda and Anelka secured a 2-0 win over Blackburn.

Anelka stressed the importance of a new manager continuing the improvement that Hiddink has started, and the French striker told Sky Sports: "Since he came we have played much better (so) it is very important for the players and for the club. We want to win something - maybe the Premier League next season. It's important to try to do something good."

Anelka is level with Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo on 18 league goals and added: "If I have a chance to score more goals, I will try like I do in every game. I should say thank you to my team-mates; they have given me the chances to score."

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has been strongly linked with the Chelsea manager's job.

Hiddink was delighted with the rousing farewell he received from the Chelsea fans after the final whistle.

He told Sky Sports: "It was surprising for me because first of all I only had a short period here. I worked with a lot of joy with these players and enjoyed the support of the fans.

"I didn't expect (the farewell reception) to be in this magnitude so I'm surprised and very grateful."

Asked to reflect on his short spell at the Chelsea helm, Hiddink said: "I came in in February to do a job. We needed to get the team out of the situation it was in at that moment, we really challenged each other and it was really unlucky that we could not have the other crown and be in the Champions League final."

The Dutchman admitted whoever comes in must look to refresh an ageing Chelsea squad.

"To be realistic in the upcoming years we have players who are ageing, but can perform. It is up to the new management (to solve the problem). It's maybe humble advice to bring in even more depth, but people in the club know that."

Rovers boss Sam Allardyce was adamant he would alter his squad over the summer months.

He said: "We'll make a few changes with the playing staff, that's inevitable - we must try and progress and get better.

"The vast majority of the squad are good enough but there will be some natural wastage. But we don't just want to bring in squad players, the players we bring in must be better than what we've got.

"We should at least be a mid-table side, and if we can have a particularly good season and steer clear of injuries, we can do well in the cup competitions and excite the fans and keep them coming to Ewood Park."