A latecomer to international football, 30-year-old Konstantin Zyryanov caught Guus Hiddink's eye with a series of outstanding performances during FC Zenit St. Petersburg's run to the 2007 Russian Premier-Liga title. The elegant midfielder demonstrated his class in the 2008 UEFA Cup final, where he capped a fine all-round performance with the late second goal in Zenit's 2-0 win.

Began career in second division with FC Amkar Perm; joined FC Torpedo Moskva in summer 2000.

Made European debut in 2001/02 UEFA Cup against Ipswich Town FC at Portman Road.

Accumulated 164 Russian Premier-Liga appearances for Torpedo, missing only one game in final three seasons.

Moved to Zenit in 2007 after Torpedo's shock relegation and immediately became part of Russia's UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying bid; started seven of last eight matches, having goal ruled out in 3-0 defeat by England at Wembley.
Voted 2007 Russian Footballer of the Year.

Started all 17 matches in Zenit's 2007/08 UEFA Cup triumph, scoring three goals.

Scored first international goal in UEFA EURO 2008™ warm-up win v Kazakhstan (6-0).

Did you know?
Zyryanov's nine-goal haul in Zenit's title triumph matched his entire output in six-and-a-half years at Torpedo.