[Chelsea FC News - Chelsea Football Club | The Chelsea FC] Yuri Zhirkov Leave...

[Vishal Marathe]

Yury Zhirkov has left Chelsea Football club before returning to his homeland Russia to sign for Russian Premier League side Anzhi Makhachkala.

Yuri Zhirkov joined Chelsea FC from CSKA Moscow for £18million in in July 2009. This move brings to an end a two-year stay for the Russian left-back. Zhirkov has signed for Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala for a reportedly £13million.

After joining Chelsea in July 2009 Zhirkov suffered a knee injury which prolonged his debut late until September. he made his debut against QPR where the Russian international played 60 mins in 1-0 win in the Carling Cup.

Zhirkov was seen more of an attacking left-back and was seen more of a left attacking midfielder in his second season at Chelsea. With Ashley Cole in good form Zhirkov was mostly restricted to the bench with playing only last few minutes of the game.

Zhirkov also admitted to the fact that he found it difficult to play in these conditions as they were totally different o those at his native Russia. But he did shine in some of the games he played for Chelsea most notably being the game against Aston Villa where Chelsea won the game 7-1 with Zhirkov playing important roles in the three goals scored by Chelsea, earning two penalties and providing another cross for Malouda.

Zhirkov's first goal in Chelsea colors came at his homeland Russia against Spartak Moscow in the Champions League stage sending in an unstoppable25-yard volley. It was nearly four months before he began a game again as an injury took a long time to heal and his last start came in the home Champions League defeat by Manchester United.


Andre Villas Boas on Zhirkov: "In the end it was mostly his [Zhirkov's] decision. It was a great financial offer for him, it is a return home for him."


Zhirkov after joining Anzhi Makhachkala: "I am very glad to be here in Makhachkala. I did not expect such reception. It is fantastic. I want to thank Anji fans and wish to our team great success today."


In total Zhirkov made 32 starts and 17 substitute appearances. Chelsea Football Club thanks the player for his contribution during that time. 

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Posted By Vishal Marathe to Chelsea FC News - Chelsea Football Club | The Chelsea FC at 8/08/2011 03:52:00 PM