Russia go for magnificent seven

Russia will try for their seventh win in a row in Euro 2000 qualifying ties next week when they meet Group Four leaders Ukraine in Moscow.

Coach Oleg Romantsev announced his 18 man squad yesterday and included only three forwards suggesting that he will perm two from the Shirko, Beschastnykh and Panov selection. Lokomotiv Moscow goalkeeper Ruslan Nigamatullin - a former SS Lazio transfer target - replaces Tirol Innsbruk 'keeper Stanislav Cherchesov.

Russia trail the Ukraine by only a point and a win could see them top the Group and automatically qualify for the finals next summer after three straight defeats at the start of their campaign. France can also win the section and are at home to Iceland as the group reaches a three way fight for the two places that mean progress in the tournament.

The squad in full -

Goalkeepers - Filimonov and Nigmatullin.

Defenders - Khlestov, Onopko, Yanovsky, Chugainov and Drozdov.

Midfielders - Alenichev, Bulatov, Titov, Tikhonov, Smertin, Karpin, Khokhlov and Semak.

Strikers - Shirko, Beschastnykh and Panov.