Vitaly Mutko visited the Sport Express editorial on his comeback to
Russia from the European championship.
The Russian Football Union president and Minister of Sports
in Russia Vitaly Mutko presented Euro-2008 bronze medals to the Russian
team coaching staff and players on Friday ahead of the team's comeback
home.
"Euro bronze medals is a big success for Russia, especially if taking
into account that our main task for the coming qualification round was
securing a berth in the final World and European tournaments", said
Mutko to Sport Express.
"In our situation semifinal surpassed our expectations, as it goes
ahead of our plans."
"Euro became a good experience for the Russian Football Union and
all people working in the national team."
"These people collected a valuable experience concerning pre-tournament
preparations."
"And of course the key positive moment is a sudden change in our
supporters' attitude towards the national team."
"People felt embarrassed ten or twelve years ago as saying they came
from Russia, while now they are proud of their nationality."
"This success will give us a big boost for future development."
"We have been waiting for too long for this triumph and it means
we are on the right way."
