Lokomotiv sign Belarusian international Tigorev

FC Lokomotiv Moskva have announced the signing of Belarusian international midfielder Yan Tigorev on a three-and-a-half-year deal from fellow Russian side FC Tom Tomsk.

Tigorev helped FC Dinamo Minsk to the title in his home country in 2004 before making 111 appearances in five seasons at Ukrianian side FC Metalurh Zaporizhy. A knee ligament injury restricted the 27-year-old to just 12 appearances during his time at Tom and he joins the UEFA Europa League contenders as a free agent.

"I could have ended up at Loko even this summer, but an injury kept me out for a few months," he said. "Despite that, Lokomotiv believed in me and were waiting for my recovery. I liked that there is a working and positive atmosphere at the club.

"This motivates me even more. I am looking forward to meeting the head coach, new team-mates and kicking off the training process. I am sure that two winter training camps will be enough to adapt, gain form and help the team at the decisive stage of the season."

Lokomotiv face Spanish side Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League round of 32 with the first leg to be played in Russia on 16 February before the return in Bilbao a week later.