Izmailov slams Advocaat

Russia midfielder Marat Izmailov has hit out at Dick Advocaat in the wake of his side’s shock elimination in the group stages at Euro 2012.

The Russians were favourites to top Group A after beating Czech Republic 4-1 in their opener and holding co-hosts Poland to a draw.

However, a 1-0 defeat to Euro 2004 champions Greece on the final matchday and the Czechs’ win over the Poles meant Advocaat’s side were edged into third in the group.

And, despite the Dutchman ending the Izmailov’s exile from the national team ahead of the European Championships, the 29-year-old said he did not enjoy working with the veteran coach.

“I don’t want to speak for the whole team. But I did not enjoy working with Advocaat,” the Sporting Lisbon man told Sport 1 channel.

“I didn’t like him both as a person and I didn’t like him as a coach.”