The Brazilian was confirmed as the new Blues boss earlier this month while still leading Portugal at Euro 2008.

He succeeds Avram Grant who was sacked despite guiding Chelsea to the runners-up spot in both the Champions League and Premier League.

'Big Phil' is renowned as a disciplinarian and will be looking to translate his no-nonsense style to Stamford Bridge with its big-name players and expectations.

However, former Chelsea boss Gullit has tipped him to succeed, telling Sky Sports News: "He will deal with it. He has had the Brazilian national team and they are all big stars also, so he will be able to deal with that.

"I have never worked with him, so I don't know what it is that sets him apart. He has the experience.

"It is a big task, but he won the World Cup and he knows how to deal with big tasks.

"I think for him he doesn't try to play attractive football, he tries to win with good football, and he did that with the Brazilian national team and with Portugal, so he knows how to play.

"But first give him a chance and then we will see. I don't think (he will be out if he doesn't win a trophy). I don't think you are under that pressure. I think any coach who comes in new needs to have time, you cannot expect immediate results. It will take time to adjust, but I think he will do well.

"It is important for a coach to stay for a long period. He needs time to get into it, time to adjust himself, give himself time.

"He is the right choice at the moment. I think he is very passionate. He is a passionate coach, he does everything with the heart."

Former England boss Steve McClaren was appointed manager of Dutch side FC Twente on Friday and Gullit - manager of Los Angeles Galaxy - expressed his surprise.

"I think it is a strange one," added Gullit. "I never thought an Englishman would do that, especially when you have had the national team.

"It is a surprise, but it is a nice surprise.

"I hope he does well, but it is a different ball game than in England. Everything in Holland is very tactical.

"It depends on how he adapts himself, because it is totally different to what he is used to, it is going to be a challenge for him.

"The English game is a fast game, a game that is played with the heart.

"In Holland everything is very tactical and a lot of passing, passing, passing, and you have to adapt to that. The club is great, it is a very good club. I never thought he would go there, so it is a real surprise."