MOSCOW, June 23 (Xinhua) -- Hosts Russia will not be intimidated by two-time world champions Uruguay as they seek to continue their unbeaten run in the World Cup, midfielder Aleksei Miranchuk said on Saturday.
Russia sit atop Group A with two wins and seven goals from their first two matches while Uruguay are second, having also won their opening two games.
Both teams are already guaranteed of a berth in the round of 16, regardless of the the result in Samara.
"Uruguay are a dangerous team, they have good goalscorers," Miranchuk told reporters. "But we won't be pushed off our game."
Miranchuk has not been used so far this tournament but the Lokomotiv Moscow player is ready to be called off the bench should coach Stanislav Cherchesov need him.
"I don't know what's more difficult, playing in the match or being on the bench," the 22-year-old said.
"On the bench you worry, but there is no time for that on the pitch. I'm ready to play. In a team there are 23 players, not 11. I'm waiting for my chance.
