Alexander Shuplyakov, the first coach to guide Artem Dzyuba at Lokomotiv, suggested that the striker’s recent hat-trick against Rostov could influence calls for national team consideration moving forward. He noted that, regardless of the performance, an invitation to the Russian squad would still hinge on broader factors beyond a single standout display.
Shuplyakov pointed out that the national team selection often weighs a player’s age and the dynamics of relationships with the coaching staff. While he didn’t personally know Valery, he implied that any offense around a prior episode in Rostov had not been forgotten. In his view, Dzyuba and head coach Stanislav Karpin often operate as pragmatic diplomats who avoid heated exchanges and retain a professional demeanor on and off the field.
With the focus on Lokomotiv, the forward was encouraged to channel his energy into forthcoming fixtures. A primary goal was to maintain consistency for the club while the national team conversations naturally unfold in the background. The coach’s commentary was cited in sports coverage, underscoring the importance of steady performance as the season progresses.
On February 8, Dzyuba officially signed a contract with Lokomotiv through the end of the season. Shortly after, on March 4, Lokomotiv secured a 3-1 victory away against Rostov, with Dzyuba delivering a hat-trick. This marked his early goal-scoring success since transferring to the Moscow club, signaling his continued ability to influence top-tier matches under the new banner.
The Russian national team was scheduled to meet on March 21 in Moscow, a date that kept expectations high for a potential recall should form and formality align in the selection process.
Previously, in spring 2022, FIFA and UEFA decided to suspend Russia from all competitions under their purview, a decision that affected both the men’s national team and Russian clubs. The impact of that period shaped ongoing discussions about eligibility, timing, and the broader landscape of Russian football on the world stage.
Additionally, figures in football commentary have noted that Dzyuba’s reputation for outspoken remarks has occasionally complicated his standing within the national team setup. Observers have suggested that the player’s candor may contrast with what national team coaches typically seek in terms of consistency and adaptability at the international level.