“I don’t think that the absence of Galaktionov and Barinov will play a key role in the match with Zenit” – Shishkin

Former Lokomotiv defender Roman Shishkin doubts that the absence of head coach Mikhail Galaktionov and captain Dmitry Barinov could play a key role for Lokomotiv in the RPL match with Zenit.

On Thursday, the Control and Disciplinary Committee of the Russian Football Union (CDC RFU) disqualified Galaktionov for two matches, Barinov for one match and one suspended game for insulting the referees in the 16th round match of the MIR RPL with Krylya Sovetov (3:3).

— As we can see, Zenit has gained good momentum and for the first time this season has become the leader of the standings. And I think this will inspire the team. Even though this team is a multiple champion, there was still some pressure and we stumbled a little. But now everything is different. I think the St. Petersburgers should be more upset than others that there are two rounds left, after which a long break will begin. Although, if we talk about the next match, it is not so easy for Zenit to traditionally play against Lokomotiv. The railway workers now seem to be average, but with a good selection of players, they can beat any team. And, by the way, the autumn game in St. Petersburg showed this when Tiknizyan scored in the end and Loko won 2:1.

— Could Zenit also have problems in the return match in Moscow?

— I think if Zenit approaches this match with all responsibility, like a champion, then there shouldn’t be any. Although Loko is a fun team with a fun attack. Again, super-motivated Dzyuba…

– But Barinov, who is disqualified for this meeting, will not be there…

— I don’t think that this will play any key role, just like the absence of Galaktionov on the bench. There is someone to replace Barinov – Kulikov, Maradishvili, Karpukas… Overall, I think it will be a good game. We are looking forward to a spirited and super-emotional meeting,” RB Sport quotes Shishkin.

Lokomotiv will play against Zenit in the match of the 17th round of the MIR RPL on December 3 in Moscow. The meeting will be broadcast live from 16:00 (Moscow time) on the Match TV channel, as well as on the websites matchtv.ru and sportbox.ru.