Former Russia striker, Roman Pavlyuchenko has backed his country to host the best World Cup ever come 2018.

The showpiece event that happens every four years, is just eight months away, with 15 teams out of 32 already guaranteed a spot.

Racism, hooliganism and homophobia are problems fans are hoping not to face Russia and Pavlyuchenko does not expect it to happen.

“I’m absolutely sure that fans will like it and I’m sure that it will be the best World Cup in the history of the World Cup. All the fans will come here and enjoy it, I’m absolutely sure,” he told the Mirror .

“There is a misconception that going to Russia will see lots of people getting hurt, punched and attacked. Anyone who comes here can see that it’s not like that. I’m sure everything will be fine in that respect.

“There are security worries wherever you go in the world but I am sure that the organisation here will be excellent and will make it very safe for the fans.”

He added: “I think people who come here for the World Cup will stay here because they will never want to leave. It will be a World Cup to remember.”