 | FACTFILE Born: 11/4/48 Position: Manager Appointed: August 2003 |
Georgi Yartsev inherited a team whose Euro 2004 qualifying hopes were hanging by a threat when he took over as coach in August 2003. Adrift of Switzerland with three games to go, Yartsev masterminded two wins and a draw to seal a play-off spot.
Wales were beaten 1-0 and Yartsev began to plan his side for Portugal.
He was praised for his tactical decision to alter the look of Russia's side by choosing a subtle blend of youth and experience.
Yartsev enjoyed a successful playing career as a striker for both CSKA and Spartak Moscow and was a Soviet Union international.
He worked in the media before returning to Spartak as coach, and had spells at Dynamo Moscow and Rotor Volgograd prior to taking over as the national coach.
Did you know? Yartsev was top scorer in the Soviet league in 1979.
MMIX
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