Hiddink takes heart from ‘important’ away goal

Guus Hiddink took heart from John Mikel Obi’s potentially vital away goal in Chelsea’s first defeat since the Dutchman returned as boss.

The Blues were beaten 2-1 by Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the Champions League last-16 tie, but they have every reason to feel confident ahead of next month’s second leg at Stamford Bridge.

“The result is negative but on the other hand an away goal is important,” Hiddink told BT Sport.

“It hurt a bit because the team was playing decently against a team with the capacity to play. But we are still in the race.

“Over two legs, it is important you have the away goal. If we can do it at Stamford Bridge then a defeat doesn’t count so much.

“We were not lethal enough at times but otherwise we can be relatively happy.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea defender Gary Cahill insisted they could feel upbeat about their chances of reaching the last eight.

More reaction from Paris to follow later.