Yevgeny Kulik returns after six-month injury layoff

Salavat Yulaev defender Yevgeny Kulik played his first game of the season in the KHL's FONBET Championship against Metallurg, a match that finished 3:4. An injury had kept him out for almost six months.

"A lot of time has passed since my last match. I was very worried. It was a serious injury, and for almost six months I could not do the thing I love," Kulik said. "Thanks to the coaching staff for trusting me to play today. My head is a bit foggy and I need to regain match fitness, but I think that with the help of the coaches and my team-mates I can get back to my previous level."

He was asked how hard it was to return against Metallurg, with the pace of the game so high.

"Yes, Metallurg is one of the strongest teams in our league. I think it is good that I started with them, it should be easier from here, although all the teams have closed the gap now and every one of them is dangerous," Kulik said. "It is a good test for me, and the result is better than I expected."