"Luzhniki is a memorable arena for me, I played here in the [Russian] Premier League, I am excited to come back here, especially after its has been reconstructed," Vidic told journalists.

Spartak, for whom Vidic played from 2004 to 2006 before moving to Manchester United, played their home matches at the Luzhniki stadium at the time.

"Russian football grows every year, new stadiums appear. And Luzhniki has been renovated for the 2018 World Cup. I wish everyone, both participants and guests, to enjoy this tournament," Vidic said.

Russia's first-ever World Cup will be held between June 14 and July 15 at 12 arenas in 11 cities across the country.

The 81,000-seater Luzhniki Stadium will host seven World Cup games including the opener between Russia and Saudi Arabia on June 14 and the final match on July 15.

Serbia have qualified for the World Cup in Russia and will play five-time champions Brazil, Switzerland and Costa Rica in Group E.