Vladimir Tarasenko: "I love coming back to Russia"

- It's always nice to see you at the Ice Palace. How was your summer?

- My son was born, so we spent some time in America. After that, we had a good holiday, and now I am preparing for the new season.

- Speak about the Russian national team's plans.

- All of the guys are slowly arriving here, and we agreed to train in Saint Petersburg every morning and evening. I would like to say a huge thank you to SKA for letting me and Artemiy Panarin hold the ceremonial faceoff, it's nice that they haven't forgotten about us.

- You haven't been inside the Ice Palace for a long time. Has the atmosphere changed?

- The support here is crazy, and it always has been. From the first period, it's obvious that the fans have missed ice hockey during the summer, and I wish the players good luck for the season. I have a lot of friends in SKA, and it's great to be here. The level of ice hockey is high. This game is between two top clubs, and such matches are always fascinating. I love coming back to Russia and watching familiar players compete.

- You will become the cover of the NHL 17 video game, and we voted for you too. Did you expect this to happen?

- No, all my thoughts were on the playoffs. Thank you to everyone who voted.

- The World Cup is coming up. Are you looking forward to it?

- I have never competed in this tournament before. All teams want to win, and we ourselves are no different.