Nikita Haikin keeps the image on his social media profiles. The photograph was taken during the warm-up to Bodo/Glimt’s Europa Conference League knockout tie against AZ Alkmaar last season and, in it, the Norwegian club’s Russian goalkeeper is facing away from the camera displaying the lyrics, plucked from John Lennon’s signature song, emblazoned on the back of his T-shirt.
“Imagine all the people, livin’ life in peace.”
The home side’s entire matchday squad wore the bright yellow tops prior to kick-off at the Aspmyra Stadium that night, the peace sign resplendent across their chests, for the team’s first competitive game after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Yet the collective gesture was given far more clout by Haikin’s willingness — no, eagerness — to lead the way.
Some may suggest that a Russian who made his position so clear about the conflict was brave. This was because it came with inherent risks. “But I’m not as brave as other people out there,” he says. “It’s the least I can do, you know — to express what I feel. The very least I can do…. Because, regardless of whether it is something I like or not, I am connected to this situation. I cannot close my eyes as many people do, and not talk or worry about certain things.
“You know people, human beings, are quite interesting. They become used to it. They can adapt to any situation, no matter how bizarre or panicky they might seem. But that’s a trap. You shouldn’t adapt. You shouldn’t forget.
“I would do a lot more if I could, really. Maybe some smart people have prevented me from doing so. I want to do more. I want more. I want to spread awareness. The majority of people know where I stand, but it’s probably not enough. I think I need to do more.”
Haikin is a remarkable person.
