Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Zhirkov is a blue


Carlo Ancelotti's first signing is PFC CSKA Moskva's Yuri Zhirkov. Dubbed "Russian Ronaldinho" he is certainly a versatile player who can operate anywhere on a left side. He was played out of position by Guus during Euro in 2008 as a left back but natrally is a left-sided midfielder.
The 25-year-old started his career with FC Spartak Tambov. His first coach Valeri Sharapov spotted Yuri's gift. "His control of the ball is a natural gift," he said. "Even after training, he stayed outside to play with his friends and went to sleep with the ball." In 2001 he had trials with FC Lokomotiv Moskva and FC Spartak Moskva having a look over him before CSKA snapped him up.
He won the Russian Super Cup on his debut for the club in March 2004. Zhirkov went on to win two Premier-Liga titles, three Russian Cups and the 2004/05 UEFA Cup with the CSKA.

CSKA and Serbia midfielder Krasić said: "For me, Yuri is the best footballer in Russia. At the Euro, he showed his class to the world. He also played consistently for the club. I am not surprised Chelsea came in for him. Zhirkov is totally worth it."

There are number of other positive endorcements.
Tottenham's Roman Pavlyuchenko said, "Zhirkov is a great professional. He could become a team leader. The only problem is his knowledge of the English language. If he masters that, all will be well."

Former Manchester United player Andrei Kanchelskis said: “Quality wing players are always appreciated in England. In addition, the main thing in this country is to fight for the whole 90 minutes. Even if you don't succeed, the fans take to you if they see you giving everything for the whole match. They realise you're playing for the shirt and not just taking their money.”

“You don't have to be friends with him (Zhirkov) to realise he is quality, hard-working and modest,”

He added: “He's no poser. And this is sure to be appreciated in his new club. They will like his inexhaustible desire to play football and give 100 per cent.

“Zhirkov can light up the Premier League as vividly as Arshavin. But he must understand that it will be difficult. Eventually everything will be OK. He has enough talent.”


After passing medical exam, Yuri had this to say:
"I'm in a perfect mood right now as I like the way people have welcomed me into the club.

"Although I haven't spent much time here, I have already seen that they have a friendly attitude towards me. I am looking forward to starting my career at Chelsea."

Welcome aboard Yuri, we're looking forward to you bombing down the left flank!

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