Ilya Kovalchuk: Young players don’t want to play for Russia? Nonsense!

New Jersey Devils forward Ilya Kovalchuk commented on the Russia national team performance at the Euro Hockey Tour last week.

«I think that Bilyaletdinov’s strategy is clear: he is trying to prepare the youngsters in the run-up to the big competitions. Once the World Cup comes around, I am sure the coaches will bring in the best players possible and we will compete for the top honours,» the Russian told Sport-Express.

«So you disagree with the wave of criticism towards Bilyaletdinov’s coaching methods?»

«You know that we live in a country of maximalists, I even read speculations that some players don’t want to come to the national team. That is complete nonsense! When you put on your nation’s jersey, you get nervous, especially if it is your first time. But that will go after a few games.»