Kanchelskis blasts 'money-mad' Russian flops in Prem

Andrei Kanchekskis has attacked the Premier League Russians who followed in his footsteps, accusing them of being more focused on money than football.

The former Manchester United star also said he expected Kanchelskis Arsenal’s Andrey Arshavin, Tottenham’s Roman Pavlyuchenko and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov of Everton would all move back home soon after failing to make a significant impression.

Kanchelskis told the Express: “These days all the players are thinking of is money matters. And I see it as one of their major problems.

“All the three Russians in the Premier League had times when they played great football but such periods proved to be too short.

“If only our guys could show more stability, each of them could be leaders of their teams. Unfortunately, that is not happening. And it is likely that they will have to move back to Russia soon.”

Kanchelskis was a big success for United, Everton and Rangers, and added: “In my opinion it was easier for me to adjust because I went there with a huge desire. And what I mean is a huge desire to play - not just to make a lot of money.”