“Friends, we want to continue playing at the World Cup and will do everything possible to make it happen," the statement says.

"We promise we will do anything to win, to give our all and even more! We are inspired with your support, you are the best fans in the world! We love and appreciate you."

Russia, who beat 2010 World Cup winners Spain on penalties on their way to the last eight, advanced past the group stage at the World Cup for the first time since the break-up of the Soviet Union.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup kicked off on June 14 and will continue until July 15, with the matches being played in 11 cities across Russia.