Capello is a specialist, says Akinfeev

04-Mar-2013 8:53:00 PM

The goalkeeper says he enjoys working under the Italian coach and praised his discipline and attention to detail

Igor Akinfeev believes Fabio Capello is the right man to lead Russia to the 2014 World Cup and hailed him as a "specialist".

The former England coach took charge of Sbornaya following the resignation of Dick Advocaat in July 2012 and has led them to four wins in as many games in their qualifying group.

"Capello is a top specialist," the 26-year old told fifa.com.

"The main characteristics of his management style are firm discipline, great organisation and minute attention to detail.

"I have to admit that I like working with Capello, it gives me a lot of pleasure. But there's no relaxing when he’s around. If you lose concentration for just a second, he'll have someone taking your place in the national team."

Russia sit comfortably at the top of Group B in their bid for World Cup 2014 qualification, but Akinfeev is adamant there is still work to be done to reach the finals.

"We still have to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil," he continued.

“All Russia's toughest qualifiers still lie ahead. That includes Northern Ireland in Belfast in March, our away match in Portugal and a tough game in Baku.

The CSKA Moscow keeper was recently appointed first ambassador for the 2018 World Cup, which will be held in Russia in five years time.