Nesmachny Profile

With 2007 just hours away, thus opening the eagerly anticipated transfer window, a number of new faces are expected to arrive at Ewood Park. One of those could be Ukrainian international, Andriy Nesmachny.

The Dinamo Kiev full-back has been on trial at Ewood Park during the winter in order for Mark Hughes to take a closer look at him. Hughes declared himself 'satisfied` with Nesmachny`s contribution so what can we expect from the experienced full-back, should he receive a permanent contract?

Well it is no secret that the left-back area of Rovers` squad needs some improving. Michael Gray can no longer make a difference in the top flight and is far too often out-paced. Lucas Neill has looked steady there all season but it is well documented that he wants to leave, and will leave during the January transfer window.

One of the reason`s Neill could leave prematurely is because of the arrival of Nesmachny. He will undoubtedly improve Rovers` options down the left. An experienced international with 58 caps to his name for the Ukraine, Nesmachny has the capacity to improve the Rovers squad as Andre Ooijer has.

Not only will he bring international experience but also valuable European experience having played regularly in the Champions League. He has been with his current side Dinamo Kiev since he made his professional debut in 1997 and is well respected by everyone connected with the club.

He is not the quickest player but became renowned during the World Cup for giving the Ukraine 'wings` for the first time. This derived from his ability to attack as well as defend. Nesmachny is recognized for his work rate that allows him to be effective as an attacking full-back.

He is of a similar build to Neill but doesn`t operate such a physical game. Valued at 750,000 by his current employers, Nesmachny would represent good value considering his approach to the game and vast experience.

However, with Jason Roberts, Ryan Nelsen and Steven Reid all due to return from long-term injury over the next month, Hughes is not 100% certain that a deal will go through at this moment in time,

"Whether there will be any significant business done by anyone is open to debate,' he said.

"It seems to be on a slow burn at the moment because the phone has not been ringing as much.

"No doubt there will be a few things flying around towards the end of the window but because we have three of our most influential players coming back, maybe the need for us to go into the market is not as important as at other clubs."

This article was produced with the assistance of marshinrover.

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