Spartak Moscow coach Domenico Tedesco has defended the work ethic of Chelsea-owned wing-back Victor Moses following his side's 5-1 rout of Tambov in the seventeenth round of matches in the Russian Premier League on Saturday, a victory that saw them go joint top in the standings.

The German-Italian football manager highlighted that Moses is known for his ability to beat opponents in 1v1 situations, putting the team in an advantageous position but on the flip side the former Nigeria international has defensive frailties when he is in a more advanced position.

Including today's comprehensive win vs Tambov, Moses has gone the distance in only two of the six matches he has started since his move to the capital outfit.

"Moses is not lazy at all, you’re wrong. He just plays quite high, opens up a lot behind the backs of his opponents. But opponents quickly go down because no one wants to engage in single duels with him," Tedesco said to Spartak's official website.

"In the event of losses, Victor does not always return quickly, but he should not do this, because we have three central defenders who can hedge. Moses' main task is to engage in counter-pressing.

"Of course, his effectiveness can increase, and we are working on it."

Spartak Moscow have won four games, drawn twice and lost once since Moses's arrival at the club in October.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : spartak.com