Stanislav Cherchesov, the former head coach of the Russian national team, acknowledged Artem Dzyuba’s performance for Lokomotiv in the match against Dynamo. He noted that while Dzyuba is not yet functionally ready, the key is his size and the need for both functional and emotional readiness. Cherchesov observed that neither aspect was evident in Dzyuba during the Dynamo game and expressed regret that the striker did not seize the moment. He added that the temporary setback could serve as a motivator, provided the player receives timely support from coaches, media, or the surrounding circumstances, which can help restore his confidence in future appearances, especially after challenging periods. [Source: Rossiya 24 TV channel]
In that fixture on March 3, Lokomotiv fell to Dinamo with a final score of 1:2. Bitello and Makarov found the net for the visitors, while Zhemaletdinov opened Lokomotiv’s account. Dzyuba was substituted at half-time and did not finish the match. [Match recap]
Throughout the season, Dzyuba has appeared in 17 Russian Championship games and four National Cup matches, recording four goals and three assists. In the previous campaign, he shared the team’s top-scorer distinction with Wilson Isidore and Anton Miranchuk, who were on the books for only part of the season. [Season statistics]
Earlier in the campaign, Dzyuba had spoken about his own form, describing how he felt he could contribute more on the pitch given his physical attributes and experience. This context helps explain the emphasis on both his physical readiness and the mental steadiness coaches expect him to maintain as he progresses through the season. [Contextual notes]