World Cup: Russia's Artem Dzyuba calls on public to back team's tilt

Russian striker Artem Dzyuba on Tuesday called on the host nation to put aside its negativity and get behind the team as they prepare to take on Saudi Arabia in the World Cup opener on Thursday.Pointing to a wave of hostility that has swept through both the Russian media and public, Dzyuba said the country needs to come together to help the players perform at their best."There are a lot of skeptical people and there is a lot of negativity around and we want to unite now like a team. So, I am asking you to add some respect toward us and we will respect you back," said the 29-year-old who has…READ FULL ARTICLE