Artem Dzyuba’s Witty Response to a Ball Boy Request and Lokomotiv Moscow’s Recent Form
Artem Dzyuba, the veteran striker for Lokomotiv Moscow, offered a sardonic comment when a ball boy asked him to score with an overhead kick. The moment, first reported by the Telegram channel Railway Workers, drew attention for its playful banter rather than the usual game highlights. Dzyuba’s reply reflected his dry sense of humor and the everyday realities players face during training and friendly sessions.
During a recent gathering at the Russian Railways Arena, Lokomotiv hosted friendly matches featuring the club’s main squad against junior and youth teams. Dzyuba participated in both matches, showcasing his ongoing involvement with the club as he continues to contribute experience and leadership on the pitch. The occasion provided a closer look at the team’s depth and the coaching staff’s approach to integrating younger players with the senior group.
Lokomotiv Moscow brought Dzyuba into the squad in February 2023, signaling the club’s intent to blend seasoned talent with fresh energy. In May, the club extended his contract through the end of the 2023/24 season, with an option to extend for another year. The 35-year-old striker has appeared in six matches in the current campaign, contributing two goals and two assists, underscoring his role as a creative and finishing threat whenever he is on the field.
After seven matches in the Russian Premier League (RPL), Lokomotiv sits in sixth place with 12 points. The team’s next fixture is scheduled to face Orenburg in a match set to begin at 19:00 Moscow time on September 17. The schedule highlights the club’s intent to build consistency across domestic competitions as the season progresses, while balancing the development of younger players within the squad.
There are ongoing discussions about Dzyuba’s impact and his understanding of the evolving dynamics inside Lokomotiv. A former teammate and league veteran has noted that the striker’s experience remains an asset in guiding younger players, even as some observers question the pace and intensity associated with a top-flight schedule. The club continues to rely on Dzyuba’s leadership, on-field intelligence, and goal-scoring instincts to help steer the squad through a competitive season. The dialogue around his role exemplifies how long-tenured players adapt to new coaching strategies and competitive environments, while still contributing significant value to the team. The sentiment among supporters remains positive, with admiration for his resilience and willingness to engage with fans during club events and media appearances. In this context, Dzyuba’s distinctive blend of humor and professionalism stands out as a reminder of the human side of professional football and the ways veterans shape club culture. The overall impression is that Lokomotiv is leveraging its veteran leadership to foster growth and cohesion as it navigates a demanding season ahead.