• Premier League

Arshavin offered Zenit exit

ESPN staff
January 21, 2011
After an impressive start to life in the Premier League, Andrei Arshavin has not looked himself in recent months © Getty Images
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Arsenal forward Andrei Arshavin could be set for a surprise return to former club Zenit St. Petersburg.

The 29-year-old Russia international has thrown in some mixed displays so far this season, scoring just four goals in 21 league games and frustrating fans with his disappointing work-rate. But his former club, who he left to join Arsenal for around £15 million in early 2009, have revealed they are interested in re-acquiring the player's services.

The Russian club's sporting director, Igor Korneev, admitted that a return for their former star is something the club would be keen on, noting there is still a lot of affection at the club for a player who helped them win the 2008 UEFA Cup.

"With Andrei it is very simple. He graduated from our club and the doors are always open for him," Korneev said. "We would always welcome him back to the club, whether that is now or in the future."

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has previously said he does not want to see Arshavin leave in the current transfer window.

"I am very happy with Arshavin," Wenger said. "I personally believe he is a great player. He is going through a period when it is more difficult at the moment but he works very hard in training, his attitude is fantastic and I'm desperate to keep him."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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