The former FC Spartak Moscow coach Stanislav Cherchesov has shared his expectations of upcoming derby in Luzhniki in an interview with bobsoccer.ru

-          Many think that after Spartak was beaten by Legia it does not have any chances against CSKA. I would not agree. The defeat against Polish team indeed came as a shock for everybody, but Europe League and Russian Premier League are different tournaments. Everything is possible in a single game, especially when it comes to derby fixtures. I would say that Spartak may win 2-1 (the game ended in 2-2 draw).

- Do you think Valery Karpin shall follow Lucano Spalletti’s pattern and play with three central defenders today?
- It is not as simple as having an extra defender and win. When defense is not duly arranged, as I believe is the case with Spartak Moscow, it does not make much sense securing your rear. Players must understand the coach’s ideas and know why the scheme is being changed. Nothing good can be expected if these ideas are not explained. I can refer to an example from my recent work with Zhemchuzhina. We were working on the scheme with three central defenders for a week before our game against Volgar-Gazprom. The players were not too happy about this idea at first, but when they finally realized what this plan would serve to (strengthened center of defense provides more flexibility to flank players), things started going smoothly. Andwewonthegame. As for Spartak, I cannot see the team on the pitch. It is just a group of players most of the time…

- Then why is your stake on the Red-and-Whites?
- Well, again, you can win a single game even against CSKA. But to really succeed, you need steady results, which Spartak does not have for a long time and which causes serious concerns.