I am a football player. I just love this game, which has given me so much ever since I first kicked a ball. I cannot remember the exact moment or place but I do feel that it has determined the course of my life.
It is football all day for me: I eat, sleep and breathe the game, so to speak. For me, days are not measured by hours but rather by 90 minute periods.
My interest and commitment to the game extends off the pitch as well, which is why I have gladly accepted the role of bid ambassador for Russia 2018. As the captain of the Russian national team, it is my duty to support the development of football throughout my country.
