"Playing at the World Cup, we knew what trouble you were in. We were very worried about you and followed the news. You did great, you showed patience and tenacity. I hope you will return to the pitch for training as soon as possible and may everything be fine with you," Samedov said in a video published on the Russian national team's official Twitter page.

The young footballers from the Wild Boars club and their coach were trapped underground for more than two weeks before being rescued following a three-day operation. The team were invited to attend Sunday's World Cup final in Moscow but could not travel to Russia for medical reasons.

After finding out that the boys would not be able to attend the World Cup final, FIFA President Gianni Infantino invited them to come to the Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony, which will be held in London on September 24.