Kolyvanov learning with his team

Igor Kolyvanov had a fine record as a striker, even being voted the last-ever Soviet player of the season before the USSR dissolved in 1991, a year after their UEFA European Under-21 Championship triumph. Now in his first coaching job, he is showing the same sort of ability, having taken Russia to their first European U17 finals.

U17 berth
His playing career ended in 2002 through injury, and after a spell as assistant Russia U18 coach, he took over the U15 side, with the aim of developing them for the 2006 U17 event. Two and a half years on, thanks to a superb Elite round performance against Bulgaria, Italy and England, Kolyvanov's team are in Luxembourg and preparing for Group A fixtures against Hungary, Spain and the hosts, starting a week tomorrow.

'Tough group'
But qualifying - starting by beating Bulgaria 5-0 (the biggest score of the Elite round) then drawing with Italy and ending with a 2-1 win against England, who had never lost an U17 preliminary fixture in the five seasons since the switch from U16s - is a huge achievement in itself. The 38-year-old Kolyvanov told uefa.com: "I could not believe we were in the finals until two o'clock in the morning! We had a very tough group indeed. So I am even more grateful to my lads who just went on to the pitch and played the three matches at a top level.

New emotions
"As a player I won the European U21 Championship, but as a coach I am experiencing such emotions for the first time. This is absolutely different. I am happy for the boys and for all our team."

Selection process
The success also vindicates the Football Union of Russia's decision to give Kolyvanov a lengthy run with the squad. "We selected the players very thoroughly," the coach said. "We looked at their technical and tactical skills, how they behave on the pitch and inside the dressing room. We tried to create the backbone of the team. It was important for us that the boys had the aim, not only of playing well today, but also of breaking into the U21 and senior Russia squads."

Fresh task
The former Foggia Calcio and Bologna FC forward is not one to rest on his laurels, and that goes for his players too. "We did a great job qualifying," he said. "But we still have everything ahead of us. We are not worth a pin if we fail in Luxembourg.

No standing still
"I keep telling the players that they cannot stand still in their development. I tell them that if they are not in their club's reserve team by 18, the dream job they took when they were ten will come to an end."

Learning curve
Like his squad, Kolyvanov is just starting out in his new profession. "I cannot say I am a complete coach," he admitted. "I have just started my coaching career and I am improving along with the lads. The team understands and supports me, and that helps a lot."

Experienced assistant
Also helpful is being able to call on the hugely experienced Vadim Nikonov as his right-hand man. "It would be difficult to find a better assistant," Kolyvanov said. "He has taught me many things, he has showed and explained many things to me. It is a pleasure to work with him."