Australia goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer believes the Socceroos need to appoint another European coach in succession to Guus Hiddink.

Dutchman Hiddink will leave his current job to take charge of the Russia national team and Schwarzer wants to see another experienced coach take his place.

He told AAP: "I think we need to go to another European.

"With all respect to all the coaches back in Australia, I don't think anyone is ready for that level yet.

"A lot of things have fallen into place in the last six to 12 months.

"Guus has been a big part of that. What he has left is a hell of a position for the next person to try to come in and emulate."

Lyon boss Gerard Houllier is the favourite to succeed Hiddink, although current Socceroos assistant coach Graham Arnold is also in the running.