Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Russian skipper Dzyuba expects a physical clash in Hampden qualifier
RUSSIA captain Artem Dzyuba believes physicality will be key against Scotland and vowed his team would do everything to outfight their hosts.
The 6ft 4in forward has experience of playing in Glasgow for Spartak Moscow in two Champions League defeats by Celtic and is preparing himself for a battle in their Euro 2020 qualifier at Hampden tonight.
The Zenit St Petersburg striker said: “We, generally, know how the Scottish national team play. We know that Robertson stands out among the players. It’s going be a tough game. They are a strong team that plays using the wings a lot.
“Scotland play a British game, they are going to be a very tough opponent with constant tackles and fight. The team who wins the most tackles will win the match and we will try to be more aggressive.”
Speaking after a Hampden training session, the 31-year-old said: “It’s a great stadium. In Russia, we have stadia that are a bit more expansive. Fans are closer to the pitch. Here’s it’s a bit further but it’s not new to us. We have the Luzhniki where they were further away.
“It’s good weather for us, it’s a good pitch – nothing else is interesting.
“It’s always going to be a fantastic atmosphere. I know myself because I visited for a few games against Celtic. The fans will be fantastic. We are hoping for a great atmosphere.”
Scotland defender Charlie Mulgrew faced Dzubya for Celtic and this week vowed to deal with the target man if called upon.
Dzubya, who has 20 goals in 36 internationals, said: “We are preparing for the whole Scottish team, not a player. It will be a serious match but thank him for remembering me.”