Applause For Veteran

Vladimir Ivashkov, Lokomotiv defender of the 1940s and 50s, celebrates his 90th anniversary. Vladimir Mikhailovich has played for the club during five seasons between 1949 and 1954. Winding up his playing career, Ivashkov switched to coaching and headed Lokomotiv FC in Saratov. In 1966 the Soviet Union youth team, managed by Vladimir Mikhailovich, won the European championship. Ivashkov was soon awarded the title of Distinguished Coach of the USSR.

The festive dinner arranged for the hero of the day and his family was attended by the well-known footballers of the past and the first Vice-president of Russian Football Union Nikita P. Simonyan. Lokomotiv took active part in the celebration of the famous veteran. On behalf of the club’s management, the head coach and fans, Mr Ivashkov was greeted with a congratulation letter read out aloud, and presented with gifts. Vladimir Mikhailovich was deeply touched. In return he extended heartfelt thanks for the warm words addressed to him.