Smolov was in the starting lineup for Russia both in their 1-0 defeat by Austria on 31 May and in their 1-1 draw with Turkey on Tuesday. Russia created only a few chances during the two games and failed to muster a single shot on goal during the Austria match.

“I played well. I'm comfortable playing with everyone in the team. I have been playing with Alan Dzagoev since we were kids in youth teams. I have no doubts about his skills and understanding of the game,” Smolov told journalists.

Smolov was the Russian Premier League’s top goalscorer in 2016 and 2017 and has been capped 32 times for Russia, scoring 12 international goals since his senior debut in 2012.