Andrey Arshavin accepts criticism and denies row with d**k Advocaat
Russian midfielder Andrey Arshavin has said he will take part of the blame for his country's sub-par performance against Macedonia, while denying reports of a rift between him and national team manager d**k Advocaat.
Arshavin featured in both of Russia's recent Euro 2012 qualifiers, where the team overcame the Republic of Ireland 3–2 before fighting to earn a narrow 1–0 win over Macedonia.
Advocaat's team has nine points from four games in Group B, but criticism was levelled against the team after they failed to impress in Macedonia.
Arshavin, who had a hand in most of Russia's attacks against Ireland but turned in a quiet performance against the Macedonians, has said he will accept criticism for his own performance if it takes the pressure off his teammates.
"Every single time I go out onto the pitch I do so with the aim of playing well, I know I can't always do that, but I always try," the 29-year-old said. "And if someone wants to criticise the team, I am happy to take that criticism onto myself if it means
that the other lads in the team can play better."
Advocaat and Arshavin on good terms
After the game against Macedonia, claims that the Russian playmaker had fallen out with Advocaat, who took over the national team post from Guus Hiddink in May, began circulating.
Commentators pointed to the fact that Arshavin did not shake Advocaat's hand after the game, but the Arsenal star has rejected the claims of a rift.
"And it's not true to suggest that I refused to shake the manager's hand after he substituted me. When I came off the pitch I went straight to the dressing room, d**k was standing far away at the time, and that's all there is to it. In terms of the group,
we have had a good start and a good week with the wins over Ireland and Macedonia."
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