Russia's build up to Euro 2008 begins in earnest later as they face Romania in Bucharest in a friendly. It’s their first match since qualifying and comes just days after Guus Hiddink committed to Russia for the long-term.

The race for places in Guus Hiddink’s squad is hotting up, with the Euro 2008 Championships just round the corner.

Wednesday's friendly with Romania will give the Dutchman a good chance of accessing his squad.

One of his selection headaches will be who to play in goal, with all three in form. But with the finals approaching, Igor Akinfeev may get the nod as he’s the most experienced of the lot.

Andrey Arshavin didn't make the trip to Bucharest as the Zenit stiker is suspended for Russia's opening two games against Spain and Greece. Hiddink's job is now to find a replacement for his talisman.

His team-mate Konstantin Zyryanov will also be missing as he's failed to recover from injury.
That leaves Hiddink with just 15 fit outfield players to choose from.

Their opponents Romania are a decent side, pipping the Netherlands to first place in their qualification campaign for the finals in Austria and Switzerland.

With players like Adrian Mutu and Christian Chivu, they are a team who could make quite an impact in the Euro 2008 finals.