“I think five friendly games are just right for the Russian team in 2023” – Kechinov

The former midfielder of Spartak and the Russian national team Valery Kechinov announced his desire to watch all the matches of the Russian national team in 2023 and noted that it would be enough for Valery Karpin’s team to play five control games.

Earlier media reported that the national team could play five friendlies in 2023.

– In your opinion, is it necessary to hold these matches at all when there is no opportunity to play in the international arena in official games?

– In any case, the players need to get together, meet, communicate and play. The coaching staff needs to look at new players for the national team. This is necessary in any case, despite the fact that there are no international competitions. I think five games is just right. Meet once every two months. Let’s say a few days of training and a game. It seems to me that this is quite enough. But in any case, this is communication that is necessary for the national team.

– Will the players be motivated to show their best football in insignificant games?

— You see, this is the national team of Russia, and I think that every football player, whether he is a beginner, plays or has achieved something, still dreams of playing for the national team. Once such a chance appears, then the motivation should be by itself. Despite the fact that there are no serious international competitions. Let it be friendly games, but anyway, this is a game for your country, millions are watching you, so this is the best motivation.

– Will you be interested in following these matches?

Haha, I’m interested in everything. Well, what to do? We have such a situation. What now, generally turn away from football and not watch anything? Of course I will watch. Let it be friendly games for now, it’s okay. The moment will come when we will be admitted and we will play in official competitions. Therefore, I will watch, I will worry, – Kechinov is quoted by Sport Day after Day.