Former head coach of the Russian national team Vladimir Krikunov assessed the striker’s form Ilya Kovalchuk who joined the Moscow team in 2023 “Spartacus” .
Kovalchuk signed a contract with Spartak in December 2023. The Olympic champion returned to the ice after a two-year break. As part of the “red and white” Kovalchuk played 25 matches in the regular season and KHL playoffs, scored four goals and gave four assists. Kovalchuk turned 41 in April.
— Is Kovalchuk still capable of benefiting the team?
– I think so. His presence alone will bring benefits to Spartak. In addition, he sets an example for young people with his attitude. Not many people play at that age.
When Ilya was young, he had fun, but at the age of 30 he began to think about his health and pursuing his career, and began to prepare harder. That’s why he played until he was 40 years old. I think he can play one more season. There is not much difference between 40 and 41 years old,” Krikunov said, as quoted by Metaratings.ru.
Earlier, Spartak head coach Alexey Zhamnov in an interview with did not rule out that Kovalchuk would continue to work at the club.
Metaratings.ru
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Source : MatchTV
I’m Emma Smith, a dedicated journalist and avid storyteller. I have been writing for news websites for the past 5 years, reporting on hockey news and delivering in-depth analysis of the sport. In my current role as Author at Athletistic, I write about hockey events from around the world to keep followers up-to-date with what’s happening in the sport.
