"I have not seen the final squad yet. But if the head coach [Cherchesov] calls up certain people, it is his right [to do so], because he is the one responsible for the results. No Chalov or Tashayev? That means their time has yet to come," Tikhonov told journalists.
Earlier this day, the Russian Football Union announced the final 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. Along with Chalov and Tashayev, defenders Roman Neustadter, Konstantin Rausch and goalkeeper Soslan Dzhanayev were not included.
"Russia failed to impress during the friendlies and this is why expectations are not great [ahead of the World Cup] and the public is worried. You know, the international tournament, new emotions… the stadiums will be full and will be supporting Russia. I think the players will improve," Tikhonov told journalists.
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Russia will host its first-ever FIFA World Cup from June 14 to July 15. The matches will be played at 12 stadiums in 11 cities across the country. Russia will face Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Uruguay in Group A.
