Hiddink names preliminary Euro 2008 squad

There are just over three weeks to go until Russia play their first match of the tournament against Spain in Innsbruck.

Before that, on May 28, Hiddink will have to reduce his squad to just 23 players.

The omission of of Aleksandr Kerzhakov was a shock for many. The former Seville striker has been in decent form for his current club Dynamo recently – but he hasn't done enough to impress Hiddink.

The squad has a familiar feel to it, with the majority of players regulars in Hiddink's squad during the qualification campaign.

Russia have three warm-up matches before the championships get underway, against Kazakhstan, Serbia and Lithuania. There will be unlimited substitutions, which will allow Hiddink to use as many players as possible.

Hiddink believes the Spanish will start as favourites to win the group, while Greece and Sweden will also provide stern tests.

Until then, it's up to the players to convince their coach they're worthy of a place in his final squad, which means the next two matches against Kazakhstan and Serbia will be crucial.




 



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