Real Madrid star Andriy Lunin has this week sent a scathing message the way of the national media in his home country of Ukraine.
This comes in direct response to claims that the goalkeeper has on more than one occasion of late turned down the opportunity to line out for his nation, whilst fully fit.
Lunin is not part of the current Ukraine squad for the November international break, fresh off booking their spot in the qualification playoffs for a spot at next year’s World Cup.
The 26-year-old, though, has over recent days been spotted training normally in Madrid.
Such developments have given rise to mounting claims that Lunin is refusing to link up with his international teammates, unless guaranteed no.1 status in Ukraine’s squad.
As alluded to above, though, on Tuesday, the talented shot-stopper has moved to shut down any such speculation regarding his commitment to the cause once and for all.
In a lengthy post unveiled on his official Instagram account, Lunin wrote:
“Looking at what has been spreading lately not just false, but just fabricated information about my refusal to represent the Ukrainian national team, I can’t keep quiet, especially when they try to tarnish my name and question my love and dedication to the national team. Before you share any information, dear journalists, make sure its truthfulness. Have any of you heard from me that I refuse to come to the national team or the head coach?! The answer is “no”, because it’s apriori impossible- to even think about not playing for the Ukrainian national team, not to say so. The national team is the dream and goal of every footballer, and for me it is a pride to represent the colors of our country. There were enough games when I wasn’t playing and was substituted and there were no problems. So what should they be now when we all understand perfectly that this is the national team, and the team and the result are the most important thing? Everyone wants to play and that’s normal, but the coach makes the decision how he sees is best for the team, and we as players have to be ready to help. The articles that have been published are lies. The unprofessionalism of journalists who make this kind of publications or statements is disrespectful to me as a professional and as an individual. Using journalism and news space to misinform fans and resolve conflicts between us is wrong. Peace to all, and glory to Ukraine!”
Conor Laird – GSFN
