The 62-year-old has agreed to combine his role as Russia coach with managing the Blues until the end of the season.

AC Milan midfielder Seedorf, who played under Hiddink for Holland, suspects Chelsea's decision to call for his countryman was made out of fear of missing out on a place in the 2009-10 Champions League.

He told Sky Sports News: "I think they're a bit worried about Champions League (qualification) for this year, otherwise I don't see a reason for them making a change like this.

"Scolari is a very good coach, but at the moment it has to do with the Champions League and they got nervous."

Chelsea sit fourth in the Barclays Premier League, but Seedorf insists Hiddink has to the qualities to ensure the Blues will feature among the European elite next season.

"He's a people manager and that has been his strength always through the years," added Seedorf.

"He knows how to handle moments of pressure, how to deal with difficult situations and how to motivate teams and keep a good atmosphere within a team. I think that's his main quality.

"When you talk about a club like Chelsea, you have to be capable of that."

Chelsea have been accused of a defensive style in recent years, particularly under Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho, who is now in charge at Inter Milan.

But Seedorf expects Hiddink's style to brighten up Stamford Bridge.

"We've never seen negative football with Hiddink in his career," he said.

"First he'll take some time to settle in and look at the team from the inside and then decide. But it will definitely be attractive football."

Seedorf fully endorsed Chelsea's selection.

He added on BBC Radio Five Live: "I think what he has shown with Korea, with Russia and in his career in general is fantastic and I can understand why they have made this choice."

Seedorf's Serie A and Champions League-winning manager Carlo Ancelotti has also been mentioned as a possible long-term successor to Scolari.

It has been suggested the Italian could take over in the summer when Hiddink's short-term deal comes to an end.

Seedorf added on Five Live: "Who knows? Football is a strange world.

"Who would have said Scolari would be on the shelf so quickly? He is a great coach and I think he has been really unlucky."