Janashia returns to Georgia

FC Lokomotiv Moscow's Georgian striker Zaza Janashia is set to return to his homeland after agreeing to join FC Lokomotiv Tbilisi on loan until the end of the season.

Transfer listed
Janashia, Georgian Player of the Year in 1999, was put on the transfer list by the Moscow club after failing to regain his form during the 2001 Russian season. "If he plays like he used to, it is quite possible that Lokomotiv Moscow will want him back," Lokomotiv club vice-president Tariel Gvaberidze said of the 26-year-old.

Six years later
Janashia is making a return to the Georgian Premier League after a six-and-a-half year absence, with a record of 33 goals in 145 league matches for Lokomotiv Moscow. He has also had spells with FC Odishi Zugdidi, FC Shevardeni-1906 Tbilisi, and FC Samtredia in Georgia.

International hope
Janashia, once the main threat in the national team's attacking ranks, said he hopes the move is for the better. "I will play in Tbilisi for the next three months, and it is not unrealistic that I will stay here next season," he said. "This way, the Georgian national team coach will see me more often. I will do my best to attract his attention."

Failed to appear
Janashia has failed to make any appearances in the Russian Premier-Liga this season after losing his place to fellow countryman Georgi Demetradze. Janashia has played nine times for Georgia, scoring four goals, with his last cap coming against Romania in March 2001.