Tikhonov still in Spartak hearts
Tuesday, April 15, 2003
Article summary
Andrey Tikhonov remains a hero at FC Spartak Moskva despite leaving three seasons ago.
Article body
By Eduard Nisenboim & Pavle Gognidze
There are players who will always be fêted by the supporters of their former club and FC Krylya Sovetov Samara captain Andrey Tikhonov definitely falls into this category.
Superstar status
Tikhonov spent nine seasons at FC Spartak Moskva, achieving superstar status as the club from the capital won championship after championship. Spartak followers have not forgotten the role played by the midfield player in this success and even after his transfer, banners still abound in his honour around the Luzhniki stadium.
Time to move on
Although Tikhonov appreciates the gesture, the 32-year-old believes it is time for the supporters to move on. "It's fantastic to see that people remember me," he said. "They chant my name and I see the banners. But I think that at times like this for Spartak the fans should get behind their club."
Raw talent
Tikhonov joined Spartak as a 21-year-old in 1992 from second division side FC Vympel Korolev, having spent his military service in the farther reaches of Siberia. However, his current coach Alexander Tarkhanov – at the time assistant to Oleg Romantsev at Spartak - saw something in the raw talent.
Player of the year
Having joined the professional ranks at a relatively late age, Tikhonov spent two seasons in the reserves. After making his debut in 1994 he became an integral part of Spartak's 1996 championship-winning side, scoring 16 goals including the winner against FC Alania Vladikavkaz in the title play-off. Being voted the Russian player of the year was never in doubt.
Special significance
Now in his third season with Samara, last weekend's visit to his old club took on special significance as Spartak could only draw 1-1 to leave them without a win from the opening four games this season. Tikhonov, however, had little time for sympathy. "Of course, playing against Spartak is not just like any game for me," he admitted. "I still have friends in this side, but as a professional the points are the important thing."
Pass judgement
Having being part of the good times at Spartak, Tikhonov is in the perfect position to pass judgement on the club's present plight. "I don't want to offend anyone, but I pity this side," he said. "The club doesn't deserve this but I know Oleg Romantsev can turn it around."
Goal milestone
Tikhonov, for his part, has enjoyed a successful start to the campaign, scoring three goals so far. His double on the opening day against FC Rubin Kazan meant he became only the second Russian player to reach the 100-goal milestone and he has been tipped to add to his 21 international appearances. "There is a new side now and [coach] Valeri Gazzaev has his own ideas," said Tikhonov. "I will keep playing and see what happens."
Firm sights
In the meantime, Tikhonov's sights are firmly set on helping his club finish in the top three of the Premier-Liga. They currently lie two points off that spot albeit with a host of other clubs. "We haven't made a good start," said Tikhonov. "We should have beaten Spartak but our problem has been converting the chances we have created."
Modest character
For a player who has tasted success at the highest level Tikhonov remains a modest character, maintaining that his career has been one of dependability. "I never had serious highs and lows in my career," he said. "I think I've always have been playing at a certain average level, and that's where I am now. I think it doesn't even matter what age I am - 32 or 25."