Ivan Varfolomeev has earned his first call-up to Ukraine’s senior squad, marking another significant step in his development since joining Lincoln City.
The 22-year-old has been selected for their upcoming Nations League fixtures after establishing himself at under-21 level. It is excellent news for Ivan, who has gone from arriving at Sincil Bank last summer to playing Championship football and now has the opportunity to earn a senior international cap.
Varfolomeev joined us from Slovan Liberec in August 2025 and finished his first campaign as our Young Player of the Season. He has continued to play a regular part under Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw, making seven Championship appearances as we settle into life back in the second tier.
His challenge last night led to an opening chance for Freddie Draper, and he’s proven to be a real fan favourite, with his name rigning out after he came off at Ashton Gate.
His international progress has continued alongside that club form. Ivan has featured in Ukraine’s qualifying campaign for the 2027 European Under-21 Championship and was involved in their 2-1 victory away to Hungary in March. Now, he will join the senior group under Andrea Maldera for a busy programme of four matches.
Ukraine begin away to Hungary on Friday 25 September, before travelling to Georgia on Monday 28 September. They then face Northern Ireland on Friday 2 October and Hungary again on Monday 5 October. The Georgia fixture kicks off at 5 pm UK time, with the other three scheduled for 7.45 pm.
We now wait for news from Romania, where Andrei Coubis is believed to be in line for a senior call-up, although his direct rival is Lisav Eissat, who played against us last night.
Tonight I shall be running a 5k ‘fun’ run at Market Rasen Racecourse, the 9 to 5k, and in honour of Ivan’s call-up, I shall wear a Ukrainian shirt!
Вперед, «Імпс»!
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