Former Rangers hero Alexei Mikhailichenko has declared he's ready to go to war as he revealed he's taken shelter with his family near Kyiv.
The Ukrainian ex-Ibrox star is current chairman of his country's national team committee having spent five years at Ibrox from 1991.
The 58-year-old was part of the club's iconic Nine In A Row run before returning to his homeland.
He's been forced to hole up near his country's capital as Vladimir Putin 's horrific invasion continues.
Mikhailichenko's son has already volunteered for the territorial army and he insists he too is prepared to fight if needed.
And he revealed he's been in touch with former Rangers star Shota Arveladze.
Mikhailichenko said: "I am at my dacha 10 miles from the centre of Kyiv. My whole family is with me: two sons, a wife, a sister, as well as dogs and cats. It's easier to go through these terrible events with family support.
"I can hear the explosions and fighter jets are flying over my head. It's extremely frightening.
"My son had enlisted as a volunteer to the territorial army and I am ready too if the need arises and I will do whatever it takes to beat the Russians.
"So far, they have told me I am not needed yet, but I am ready for when they want me to fight.
"Many of my friends have already left for safe places, but we are still here. I was told one day at 6am to leave my house in the centre of Kyiv and come here instead.
"I keep asking myself how could this happen.
"But I have no doubt the Ukrainian people will overcome this. I am proud of our army and the people here. Our military are heroes. I don't even have the words to describe the bravery of these guys and the doctors too.
"The TV is on 24/7 to catch all the news. Football has very much receded into the background.
"I have received a lot of messages and calls. The other day, Shota Arveladze called me to ask how I was doing. I have had messages and support from people in Scotland and Italy, where I used to play."
