Russia coach Guus Hiddink has chosen to call goalkeeper Vladimir Gabulov and midfielder Viktor Budyanski in his 23-man squad for the games against Andorra and Croatia. Russia's regular keeper Igor Akinfeev is injured and is facing a knee problem and hence Gabulov gets a chance although Vyacheslav Malafeev might be the eventual choice to replace Akinfeev.

Russia goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev sustained a horrific knee injury in a game against FC Rostov. The 21-year-old has torn ligaments, which could see him off for over six months. "I am shocked,” said Akinfeev. “That is all I can say."

Russia trail leaders Croatia by two points and their clash with the Croats might determine who emerges leader in this group. In their last outing they outclassed Estonia 2-0. Aleksandr Kerzhakov was the hero of the game scoring one goal and creating one for for Vladimir Bystrov. Guus Hiddink's side will be hoping to take a giant step toward Euro 2008 by winning both their upcoming matches. Russia v Andorra Euro 2008 qualifier is scheduled to be played this weekend. As per usual you can watch the football live online through our network.

Bottom placed Andorra have no such problems with all players available for the clash. Andorra are yet to open their account in the Euro 2008 qualification stakes and it does not look likely against a strong Russian team. Jordi Escura and Toni Lima are looking forward to the clash although they are aware it will be tough going.

"I'm very aware of how lucky I am to be Andorran. At the beginning I used to see famous players on television and I wondered to myself whether they were really flesh and bone, but now I know they are!" Escura enthused.