Artem Dzyuba, the striker for Lokomotiv Moscow, was not listed in the squad for the upcoming matchup with Fakel Voronezh in Week 28 of the Russian Football Championship.
The Lokomotiv versus Fakel contest is scheduled to take place at the RZD Arena and will kick off at 14:00 Moscow time today.
After 27 rounds in the Russian Premier League, Lokomotiv sits in 10th place while Fakel sits two spots back in 12th.
Dzyuba has missed two consecutive matches, not appearing on the field in the most recent game against Krylia Sovetov.
It is noted that the forward has not played in the Russian Premier League since the previous season. In February he signed a six month deal with Lokomotiv after spending a brief spell with Adana Demirspor in Turkey.
Since returning to Russia’s top flight, Dzyuba has contributed eight goals and four assists in nine appearances, making him Lokomotiv’s leading scorer this season. The team did not feature him in the most recent match against the Soviets, a decision that has drawn attention from supporters and pundits alike.
Former coach Yuri Semin had even suggested Dzyuba be honored with the opening of the season award, underscoring the player’s impact when fit and available. The consideration of such accolades highlights the broader context around Dzyuba’s form and his potential role for Lokomotiv as the campaign progresses. The absence from the lineup continues to be a talking point for fans following the team’s performance this season. [Source: Russian Premier League reports]