Kuranyi upbeat about Dynamo's future

Dynamo Moscow skipper Kevin Kuranyi believes that success in the Europa League play-off matches with Bundesliga side Stuttgart could help his team to overcome their dismal start in the Russian league.

"It will be tough, as Stuttgart have played in the European cups on a regular basis and their players are experienced fighters," Kuranyi said of his former club before the first match on Tuesday for a place in the competition's group stages.

"It's an excellent chance for Dynamo players to win back their self-confidence. We desperately need it," he added, describing the club's start to the Russian Premier League as a "nightmare".

Dynamo, the only Russian league top-flight side never to have been relegated, have had a disastrous start to their domestic season, suffering five defeats in as many matches and scoring only one goal.

Kuranyi was also sent off in Sunday's match against Terek Grozny after receiving two yellow cards.

The 30-year-old former Germany striker, who played for Stuttgart from 2001 to 2005, said the defeats have hit their self-confidence but he has never thought about leaving Dynamo.

"I'm the Dynamo skipper and I feel responsibility for my club," he said. "I'm doing my best every day to help the team overcome their troubles. And I look forward with optimism."

Kuranyi said new coach Dan Petrescu was key to the club's revival.

"He's a top-class football specialist. He was playing in great teams and is famous for his work both in Russia and at an international level," Kuranyi said of the former Chelsea and Romania star.

"I talked to him and felt he has winner's mentality. I believe he's able to improve the situation."