Yuri Kovtun

Yury Kovtun (Юрий Ковтун, born Jan 5, 1970 in Azov) is a Russian football defender, well-known as 90's Russian international, as well as Dinamo Moscow and Spartak Moscow stopper.

Kovtun's career started in minor Russian club Luch Azov. Then he moved to professional club Rostselmash. In 1992, Rostselmash and Kovtun starred in first Russian championship where they unexpectedly promoted to 8th place. Kovtun was impressive during the season so two top teams were interested in him at the same time, it's Dinamo and Spartak Moscow. In 1993, Kovtun chose Dinamo Moscow and was their key player for years, until his move to Spartak in 1999.

While all Kovtun won with Dinamo during 6 years was Russian Cup in 1995, after joining Spartak he could get 3 titles in 1999, 2000 and 2001. Moreover, he took part in numerous UEFA Champions League games and found himself regular Russian international team player.

Kovtun's strong sides as defender always was great tackling, tight marking of opponents and good heading skills. The main weakness of his skills at all times was low pace and acceleration. Another drawback from the lack of speed was that he often played too dirty so he could easily gain yellow card or even being sent off.

Kovtun played for Russian international team 49 times, scoring 3 goals. Most impressive moments of his international career was unbelievable long shot goal to Yugoslavia during WC-2002 qualifier and own goal in Iceland away game during Euro-2000 qualifying. He was a part of Russian squad on

and Euro 96 finals.

During 2005, Spartak's veteran couldn't gain first team place and most of the season played for reserves. In January 2006 he seems to leave Spartak Moscow for just relegated into Russian First Division Alania Vladikavkaz.