Vice President of the Russian Football Union Sergey Anokhin told Sputnik Wednesday that the Russian national team needed support rather than criticism ahead of their "home" FIFA World Cup.
Russia were held to a 1-1 draw by Turkey in their last warm-up game ahead of the World Cup on Tuesday, less than a week after losing to Austria 1-0.
"The team is getting ready, and they are getting ready to win, to play well, all they need is our support... Everyone has to get together and support our team, there is enough criticism as it is. Everyone sees and knows this. We need more support," Anokhin said.
He added that Turkey provided a good test for the Russians and there were some positives to take out of the match.
"We got a chance to try out our tactics and players. Things are starting to come together in a positive way, but we'll see everything soon. The wait is almost over," Anokhin said.
Russia will host its first FIFA World Cup from June 14 to July 15. The fixtures will be played at 12 stadiums across 11 cities, with the host nation facing Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Uruguay in Group A.
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