Russian midfielder Andrei Mostovoy has downplayed the significance of key Nigerian players' absence from the upcoming international friendly between Russia and Nigeria scheduled for early June.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Mostovoy insisted that the non-inclusion of star players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi in the Super Eagles squad would not affect Russia's approach to the match.

"We have normal opponents in June. Belarus was there last year, it will be very interesting with Nigeria," Mostovoy said, as quoted by TASS. "The fact that some of the stars of the Nigerian team will not come does not change anything in terms of the team's mood, we have played with weaker opponents before."

The Russian midfielder added: "Nigeria is a very interesting opponent, it will be interesting to play. Of course, we will go into this match with maximum mood."

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle recently announced his squad for the friendly match against Russia, notably omitting Osimhen, Lookman, and Iwobi. Chelle later explained that the decision was deliberate to provide opportunities for new players to showcase their talents.

This international friendly comes as both teams prepare for their respective continental competitions and World Cup qualifying campaigns. For Nigeria, it represents a chance to test the depth of their squad beyond the established stars who have been excelling at club level in Europe.

The match between Russia and Nigeria is scheduled to take place in the first week of June, with football fans eagerly anticipating how the Super Eagles will perform without their key attacking talents against the European side.