Russia lacks talent and desire, minister says
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
The head of Russia's football federation has blasted the country's players for a lack of talent and desire as they exited the European Championship in the group stage.
Vitaly Mutko, who is also Russia's Sports Minister, says fourth place in Group B with defeats to Wales and Slovakia "shows the real level of our football" ahead of a home World Cup in 2018.
Mutko tells Russian state news agency Tass that "we don't have any top class players right now" and that "perhaps many have a lack of desire to grow, to move, to perfect themselves."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Mutko adds Russia should focus on developing young players and improving the domestic league but "you can't change anything in an hour."