Captain leaves Armenia squad

Armenia Under-21 captain Karen Muradyan has caused a stir in his home country after failing to return home following a UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifier against Spain.

Heavy defeat
While the rest of the squad continued to Leon following the 5-0 defeat by Spain in Zamora on 1 April, Muradyan left the party without informing anyone of his decision and travelled to the Netherlands, where he remains ahead of further developments.

'He must be punished'
Muradyan's actions were met with an angry response from Armenian Football Federation president Ruben Hayrapetyan. "No matter the results of our international teams, I am more angry with Karen Muradyan," he said. "I will do my best to bring Muradyan back to the country and punish him as lesson for all other young players. Nobody can put shame on Armenia's proud history, especially an international footballer."

Influential figure
The FC MIKA midfield player has won seven U-21 caps for Armenia, and was selected as captain for the 2-0 home win against Northern Ireland on 28 March. Armenia currently lie fourth in Group 6, with four points from four games.