CSKA Moscow coach Leonid Slutsky leads Russia into Euro 2016, but the squad has been dealt a huge blow with midfielder Alain Dzagoev missing the tournament after breaking a bone in his foot on Saturday (21st May).

In a remarkable statistic, since the break-up of the Soviet Union, Russia have only made it past the group stages of the European Championship on one occasion.

That was back in 2008 under Guus Hiddink, when Russia made it all the way to the last four.

Russia began their qualifying campagin under Fabio Capello, but a home defeat to Austria in July 2015 left them in danger of failing to reach the competition.

The Italian was promptly replaced by CSKA Moscow coach Leonid Slutsky, who continued his day-to-day club duties while coaching the national team.

Under Slutsky, Russia won their remaining four qualifiers to secure second place in their group an automatic spot at Euro 2016.

Russia open their campaign in France against England, a match that captain Roman Shirokov believes will be tough.

SOUNDBITE: (Russian) Roman Shirokov, Russia captain:

"There is no need to discuss England, it will be difficult as they are clearly one of the favourites at the tournament. It will be the first game of Euro 2016, which will set the tone for the competition. Having said that it won't define the entire tournament, in 2008 we lost our first match heavily and progressed, while in 2012 we won our first game convincingly and were eliminated."

Unfortunately for Slutsky and Russia, they will be without star midfielder, Alan Dzagoev, who suffered a broken metatarsal in the final game CSKA Moscow's season.

Following their match England, Russia can look forward to games against Slovakia and Wales.