Arsenal star Arshavin ready to shine for Russia

Russia skipper Andrei Arshavin is determined to shine at the Euro 2012 finals and put his critics, who insisted that his heart wasn't with the national team, firmly in their place.

Russia defeated Slovakia 1-0 on Friday and now just need to avoid defeat against whipping boys Andorra on Tuesday to secure their place in the finals in Poland and Ukraine next summer.

Arsenal star Arshavin recently experienced a rocky period of his career when he was repeatedly criticised for his performances both with the national team and his club side. However, he has shrugged off the criticism to confirm his status on both fronts.

"He had a good start to the new season," said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. "He showed his worth clearly in the Premier League matches and the Champions League games. There's a big difference between Arshavin's image and his real nature. He often produces an impression of being a careless person. But he works really hard and conscientiously at training. He is a 100-per cent professional football player."

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