Vladislav Ignatyev: I want to go to the Euro

Right after the contract signing Vladislav Ignatyev went to the club museum - oddly enough, it was his first time there. And still it seems like he never left - meeting the staff, he chatted with them like with good old friends.

– There have been several occasions recently when Russian players returned home. I feel like congratulating you.

– Thanks. That's probably what it is - homecoming. I agree with how you put it - Lokomotiv is a great club for me. Many players dream of playing here and I'm happy I'm here now. It's the rule of three, right? So here's my third coming to the club. I promise I'll remember my previous mistakes, work hard and help Lokomotiv attain its goals. I hope I'm here to stay.

– Do you understand why you didn't use your chance in the past?

– I think that's because I was young and inexperienced, I didn't feel the responsibility that was there upon me. I have had my time and I'm smarter now. I know how to act better in different situations. I think I have become more responsible and demanding to myself. I feel I have become more professional. 

– Why #20? You used to be #18.

– There are not so many vacant numbers that I like on the list. My choice is simple - I was born on the 20th.

– This transfer was not a simple one, with a lot of waiting involved. How fit are you for the start of the season given the conditions? 

– Indeed I missed some of the preparatory time but I have been following an individual workout. I hope to be in form again, not worse than late last year. And of course I keep in mind the national team. I want to go to the Euro.