Russia omit Kerzhakov from Euro 2008 squad

By Gennady Fyodorov

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia striker Alexander Kerzhakov was a surprise omission when coach Guus Hiddink unveiled his 25-man provisional squad for Euro 2008 on Wednesday.

Kerzhakov has struggled to regain his form since joining Dynamo Moscow from Sevilla in February.

"There are many players who could have been on this list, but we always look for the balance when we make the selection," Hiddink told reporters when asked about Kerzhakov's absence.

The Dutchman also raised a few eyebrows by calling up 32-year-old midfielder Sergei Semak for the first time since he took over the Russia post in July 2006.

Unlike Kerzhakov, Semak has been in sparkling form this season, helping unfancied Rubin Kazan to the top of the Russian premier league.

Hiddink also included three newcomers, Lokomotiv Moscow defender Renat Yanbayev and midfielders Oleg Ivanov of Krylya Sovietov Samara and Alexander Pavlenko of Spartak Moscow in the 25-man panel, which will be trimmed to 23 by May 28.

Russia are in Group D with Greece, Spain and Sweden at the championship being co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland.

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