While rich in talent Lokomotiv Moscow finished a disappointing seventh in the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia. With the players now on holidays till the start of training camp on January 16 in Turkey, Mr. Vladimir Yakunin, Deputy Head of the Russian Railways company, spoke of the clubs immediate future. He addressed concerns, giving not only a vote of confidence to manager Rashid Rakhimov but emphasizing his commitment to bettering the sport in Russia as well as the complexities of the economy:
Speaking directly of Mr. Rakhimov he said:
“However Rashid Rakhimov came in during a difficult period for the team. When we were choosing the coach last year we considered only Russian specialists. We always try to focus on everything Russian. Supporters and we would be pleased if a Russian coach gained success with the team and when the coach and half of the players do not understand Russian… I don’t think that is good.”
“At the moment the question of replacing the positions of the president or the head coach of the club is not being considered. There are always opportunities for development in the life. And only when they are exhausted we will think about the change. But it is not like this now.”
Unfortunately the world’s financial crisis has not left the Red-Greens untouched, stating:
“The amount of funding is determined by the board of directors on the basis of our financial possibilities. Of course the world crisis cannot leave our company untouched and that results in the cuts in payments to the club. And we consider the possibility of having one more joint owner.”
“As company-shareholder we are disappointed with the results of the football team but I think the potential for revival of the former glory of Lokomotiv have both the head coach and the management.”
