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Shatov availability boosts Russia hopes

Oleg Shatov will be available to for Russia's Group B opener against Spain, with the midfielder no longer required for the senior side's 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Portugal.

Oleg Shatov (left) in action during qualifying
Oleg Shatov (left) in action during qualifying ©ČMFS

Russia have received a boost ahead of their UEFA European Under-21 Championship opener against Spain on Thursday with the news that Oleg Shatov will be available for selection.

Included in Nikolai Pisarev's original 23-man squad, the FC Anji Makhachkala midfielder was due to serve with the senior squad in Friday's 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Portugal, making him unavailable for the U21s' Group B opener in Jerusalem. However, Fabio Capello will not be requiring the services of the 22-year-old, freeing him up to face holders Spain.

Shatov, who scored twice while appearing in every game during qualifying, joins up with his squad-mates today as they prepare to face the Netherlands and Germany after starting against Spain in Israel.

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