Rebrov among Ukraine's new Friends of EURO

Former Ukraine and FC Dynamo Kyiv striker Serhiy Rebrov, designer Viktor Anisimov and astronaut Leonid Kadenyuk have become the latest Friends of UEFA EURO 2012 in that country.

The trio were presented by Ukrainian tournament director Markiyan Lubkivskiy and bring the total of public figures and celebrities to receive the honour to 37 out of an eventual 50. Another 50 spots are destined for the Ukrainian general public via competitions open to all ages; tournament co-hosts Poland are also well on their way to nominating 100 Friends of EURO.

Kadenyuk, independent Ukraine's first man in space, spoke of his pride at the award and encouraged his compatriots to contribute to the success of UEFA EURO 2012 by, among other things, joining the volunteer programme. "I'd like to advise anyone who wants to reach big goals in their lives: don't miss this chance," he said. "The experience you can get here will enrich you as a person and as a professional."

Rebrov is the Ukrainian Premier League's all-time top scorer, registering 123 goals in 261 appearances for FC Shakhtar Donetsk and more famously FC Dynamo Kyiv, where he gained fame for his attacking partnership with Andriy Shevchenko. He also won 75 international caps and is now on the coaching staff of the national team and at Dynamo. Donetsk native Anisimov is a celebrated fashion designer of men's and women's clothing and accessories.

Click here for more information on the volunteer programme.