Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Cuiaba: Russia midfielder Victor Fayzulin has admitted that he was impressed by the Korea Republic national team he faced in a friendly last November as the 2018 FIFA World Cup hosts prepare to renew acquaintances with the Taeguek Warriors in their Group H opener in Cuiaba on Tuesday.
Speaking to fifa.com ahead of the encounter at the Arena Pantanal, which sees the sides meet again just six months after Russia's 2-1 friendly victory in Dubai, the Zenit St. Petersburg midfielder said:
"I remember that I liked Korea's national team. I liked the way they moved, I liked how sharp they were. They are disciplined. As a footballer, I find it hard to play against them. They are quick, small and sharp players."
Fayzulin has emerged in integral part of Fabio Capello's Russia since the former AC Milan and Real Madrid manager called him up in July 2012, having not featured in the thinking of either Guus Hiddink or Dick Advocaat, both of whom, ironically, had spells as Korea Republic coach.
"I used to play on the right, on the left, as an attacker, but was never put in a central midfield position," continued Fayzulin, who has appeared 138 times for Zenit.
"Only in the last two years have I started to play in this position permanently, so that is why I guess they called me up to the national team."
Photo: AFP