• Premier League

Arshavin swaps Arsenal for Zenit

ESPN staff
February 24, 2012
Andrei Arshavin is heading back to Russia © Getty Images
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Arsenal's Andrei Arshavin has joined Zenit St Petersburg on loan until the end of the season.

The Russia international spent eight years at Zenit before his £15 million move to Emirates Stadium in 2009, and after struggling for form this season has rejoined his former side on the Russian transfer window deadline day.

"It's done," Arshavin confirmed on his Twitter page, before revealing on his official website that he would wear the No. 29 jersey.

Arsenal confirmed the move, with a brief statement on their website reading: "Andrey Arshavin has joined Russian Premier League champions Zenit St Petersburg on loan for the remainder of the 2011/12 English Premier League season."

Arshavin spent eights years with Zenit, and his return to the Russian league leaders will no doubt be greeted warmly by fans who witnessed his rise to become one of Europe's most sought-after talents.

Another motivation for Arshavin's return can be found in this summer's Euro 2012 tournament, in which he would hope to feature prominently for Russia. Playing regularly for Zenit certainly won't harm his chances.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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