Of a 23-man squad only Nurnberg striker Ivan Saenko plays his domestic football outside of Russia, which for many will be seen as refreshing but for devotees of Premier League player-watching, Hiddink's side are persona non grata.
Still, given spotting an English-based charge is not exactly whale watching in Reykjavik, do not despair. Just focus on those players who haven't learnt their national anthem as they've been too preoccupied checking their final wage slip of the season.
Forgive me, I've grown all protective of my brave Russians.
The architect of much of Russia's best work is captain, pin-up boy and all-round good egg Arshavin; which only makes his suspension all the more galling to stomach.
Capable of picking incisive passes at key moments and possessing a mind that is as quick as his feet, the Zenit schemer could emerge as one of the stars of the tournament, if Russia can progress from the group stages.
At club level he orchestrates a side not dissimilar to Russia's and it is an ability to harness and bring the best from lesser individuals, that Hiddink has recognised and nurtured during his time at the helm.
