Russia s Cheryshev called up for Brazil, France friendlies

Moscow March 12 (IANS) Russia coach Stanislav Cherchesov on Monday summoned midfielder Denis Cheryshev for the national team s pre-World Cup friendlies against Brazil and France to take place in late March.

This was the first time for the Villarreal midfielder who appeared in nine international matches with Russia to be called up by Cherchesov who has led the team since 2016 reports Efe.

Cheryshev who last appeared for his national team in a Russia-Croatia friendly in November 2015 could play against Brazil on March 23 at Luzhniki Stadium home of the 2018 FIFA World Cup final.

The midfielder may also appear against France on March 27 in the Russian city of St. Petersburg.

Cheryshev 27 made his debut with the Russian national team under coach Fabio Capello but injuries prevented him from joining the team at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil and the UEFA Euro 2016 in France.

Although it appears coach Cherchesov has already chosen his midfielders for the 2018 World Cup Cheryshev may have been summoned for the upcoming tournament because of his ability to also play as a forward.

Russia host of the upcoming World Cup is to compete in Group A along with Uruguay Egypt and Saudi Arabia and is set to play the opening match against Saudi Arabia on June 14.

--IANS
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