Mostovoi set for Russian return

Russia coach Oleg Romantsev is ready to unleash Alexander Mostovoi on Belgium as his side look to clinch their place in the second round of the World Cup.

The Celta Vigo midfielder missed the first two games with a hamstring injury.

But with a few days of training behind him he looks set to play at least some part in the Group H match in Shizuoka.

"He has no limitations now," said Romantsev.

"Before he was training by himself, but he has got a lot better recently. However, I don't think he will be able to play a full game. He may be substituted in the second half but we will see later."

His return would be a welcome boost to the Russians with Group H still wide open.

While a point will set them up in the last 16 against Brazil, victory will give them a better chance of pipping Japan to top spot and the easier task of facing Turkey.

Romantsev insists his players have their eye on going through as group winners.

"They realise if they only play for a draw, nothing will come from it," he said.

"I trust the players' experience and I know they will play at full strength."

Belgium have been boosted by the return of a player who missed the opening matches.

Left-back Nico van Kerckhoven will return and will replace Peter van der Heyden as Belgium look to claim their first win of the tournament.

"There are some small injuries but nothing serious," said coach Robert Waseige.

"On a psychological level there are no questions about the strength of my team and they are all eager to play."