Thursday Sep 29 2005 10:51
Russia coach Georgi Yartsev is adamant that his decision to expel veteran midfielder Aleksandr Mostovoi will not weaken his side as they prepare to get back on track by beating Portugal in Lisbon.
Mostovoi criticised Yartsev's training methods following the 1-0 opening day defeat to Spain and has been sent home by the Russia coach who is looking forward to taking on the hosts.
"We have played and won without Mostovoi before," said Yartsev.
"He did not feature in our play-off win against Wales either, so do not pay too much attention to his absence. For some reason people believe he is the biggest star in our team. I don't believe that.
"The mood in the squad is good, and the players took this decision the right way.
"Mostovoi got over-confident and rates himself too highly. He also doubted our chances in the group and our ability.
"You cannot play at a major tournament in such a mood. Mostovoi is not a star. Smertin and Alenichev are our stars."
Yartsev also played down his defensive problems following Roman Sharonov's suspension after the Rubin Kazan star was dismissed against Spain.
"We still have Anyukov and Bugayev and we will be evaluating their form," he added.
The Russia coach expects Portugal to go for all-out attack as they bid to get over their disappointing defeat against Greece, but Yartsev thinks that could work to his side's advantage.
"The most important goal for us is to avoid nerves and not to be afraid," he added.
"If Portugal consider this a make-or-break occasion, they will go for all-out attack.
"It would be stupid to believe they will sit back in defence waiting for us to come at them. Doubtless, they will have more possession, while we will rely on counter-attacks."
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