“We are in trouble, if we don’t improve” – Hiddink

Russia are continuing preparations for Wednesday’s important World Cup 2010 qualifier against Finland. Guus Hiddink's men head to Helsinki on Tuesday after holding their last training session in Moscow.

Russia arrived to the training session showing they know their business very well. A win in Finland would put Guus Hiddink's men just one point behind Germany in Group 4.

And they must stick to their guns, according to the Dutchman:

“I don’t care so much who’s the favorite. The game nowadays in Europe is very difficult. But we have the confidence and we must play our football, which is a kind of attacking football. And we have to improve some aspects of the game, regarding the last game against Liechtenstein. We have to work on some positions a little bit more, because if we don’t do it, we are in trouble,” Guus Hiddink said.

Hiddink's main concern during the last week was captain Sergey Semak, but the Rubin midfielder has now completely recovered from his hip injury.

“We had the last test with Semak today. And I think he did well. He worked hard during the weekend in training and also in treatment. So he can join the group,” Russia’s coach said.

The one problem time can't heal is Aleksander Anyukov's suspension for the Finland test. Lokomotiv's Renat Yanbaev is expected to start in his place instead. In any case, Hiddink thinks Anyukov's abscence isn't a tragedy:

“He’s one of those modern right fullbacks, who can defend very well, who are very athletic and very committed… But we have to live with it, and of course one or another player will start there. And then I have my confidence again on that position,” Guus Hiddink said.

Finland weren't very impressive against Liechtenstein this weekend. The Scandinavians came from a goal down to beat their opponents 2-1.

“This means that also they have this mentality – when it’s getting tough they keep on fighting. We have seen Finland, who are very determined. It’s one of their last chances to get points, because if they don’t get the points they, then they have trouble fighting for second place,” Guus Hiddink said.

Russia will enter Wednesday's clash as slight favorites, after they eased past Finland 3-0 in Moscow last November.

Hiddink's charges shouldn't take three points for granted as the Finns are famous for their strong record on home ground.