St Johnstone star Max Kucheriavyi enjoyed a Ukraine debut to remember after notching a stunning, quick-fire strike on his under-21 bow.
The 20-year-old midfielder was honoured to be called up by his country – and showed his hunger right from the off against Israel.
The Saints star surged into the box to smash a half-cleared free-kick into the net after just two minutes of the friendly encounter.
And Kucheriavyi’s positioning, determination and eye for goal are bound to have Perth boss Callum Davidson purring.
Since signing a three-year deal at McDiarmid Park in June 2021, the youngster has enjoyed successful loan spells with Brechin City and Kelty Hearts.
His target now is to secure regular first team action with Saints – and he could be in line to succeed after the World Cup.
‘Long way to go’
In discussing Kucheriavyi’s under-21 call-up, Davidson said: “It’s been a bit frustrating that I haven’t been able to give him as much game-time as I’d have liked to.
“But he’s working really hard in training and there’s a long way to go in the season.”
Kucheriavyi was handed a start – and turned in an impressive performance – against Celtic in October.
Fans will now hope to see more of the 20-year-old, who is set to face Georgia with Ukraine’s under-21s before returning to Perth.
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