Karpin - usually plays 'in the hole'. (Allsport)
VALERY KARPIN
Position: Midfield
Born: 02.02.69
Club: Celta Vigo
If Alexander Mostovoi is pushed back to the sweeping position in Japan and Korea, Russia will expect much of Valery Karpin.
That is not to say that Karpin is in the shadow of his team-mate - more that he has the ability to carry the craft into midfield that Mostovoi's absence brings about.
Karpin is at home anywhere in the middle of the park, although he usually adopts the position 'in the hole', where his tremendous ability and darting runs make him a real handful for defences.
He combines that with a powerful shot and a good football brain, but he is also not afraid of rolling up his sleeves and doing his share of the work in defensive positions.
Karpin's former clubs include CSKA Moscow and Valencia, but he has come into his own since joining Celta four years ago.
He was one of Celta's star performers last season and is certain to be a permanent fixture in the Russian side at the World Cup.
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