A Russian international since November 1997, Sergei Semak has been recalled after a lengthy absence, making his comeback in the pre-UEFA EURO 2008 friendly against Kazakhstan. The 32-year-old attacking midfielder has enjoyed a superb start to the 2008 domestic season with surprise league leaders FC Rubin Kazan.

Made Russian top-flight debut at 17 for FC Asmaral Moskva; switched to PFC CSKA Moskva and became mainstay over next decade, making 272 league appearances and scoring 68 goals.

Awarded first cap by Russia in 1998 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off against Italy in Naples (0-1).

Made squad for 2002 World Cup finals but unused; overlooked for UEFA EURO 2004 squad despite five qualifying appearances.

Won first major club honour in 2002, lifting Russian Cup with CSKA (2-0 in final v FC Zenit St. Petersburg); league title followed in 2003.

Scored four goals in 2004/05 UEFA Champions League, all against Paris Saint-Germain FC, prompting French club to buy him.

Moved back home 12 months later, to FC Moskva; after two good seasons joined Rubin.

Did you know?
Semak's move to PSG denied him participation in CSKA's triumphant 2004/05 UEFA Cup campaign – a competition they qualified for at the Paris club's expense thanks to his hat-trick in a 3-1 win at the Parc des Princes in the UEFA Champions League.