Russia international footballer dies aged 43 fighting in Ukraine

His father confirmed the news

The 43-year-old joined Vladimir Putin’s forces just months after being sentenced to 10 years in prison for drug trafficking.

Bugayev represented Russia in the 2004 European Championships and retired in 2010 aged 29.

It was reported that he attempted to sell almost half a kilogram of methylephedrine and could have been sentenced to a total of 20 years had he not pleaded guilty in court.

It’s nearly three years since Russia first invaded Ukraine and throughout the conflict, Putin has been keen to recruit new soldiers to the frontline.

With reports that approximately 200,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since the conflict began, Putin signed a bill to allow prisoners to fight, with some even able to join the frontline ahead of their respective trials.

The former footballer's death was confirmed by his father Ivan, who told Sport24: “Unfortunately, the news about Aleksei's death is true. It happened today.”

It was also tragically revealed by Bugayev's agent Anton Smirnov that the 43-year-old's body could not be retrieved for burial.

Bugayev made seven senior appearances for his country during his playing career and enjoyed stints at Lokomotiv Moscow and Krasnodar.

More to follow.