Russia look for improvement

Russia coach Dick Advocaat insists his side have plenty of work to do despite thrashing Italy 3-0 last week.

The Russians sounded out a warning to maiden opponents Czech Republic with a comprehensive defeat of Italy in Zurich, with Aleksandr Kerzhakov opening the scoring on the hour-mark before Roman Shirokov netted a late double.

The manner of the victory has led many pundits to install as Advocaat’s team as dark horses for Euro 2012, but the Dutchman is ignoring the pre-tournament hype surrounding his team ahead of their Group A opener.

“The result against the Italians gives us great confidence,” the former Netherlands coach told Sky Sports.

“These friendlies are very important.

“That game (against Italy) showed that we are on the right track. But I also think we have to be a lot better defensively.”

Advocaat said he knew what his starting line-up would be for Friday’s meeting with the Czechs in Wroclaw.

“We still have a few days to go and anything can still happen,” he said.

“Of course, I have prepared the side in my head for the most part, but I will not be saying anything about it.”