Romantsev resumes duties

FC Spartak Moskva coach Oleg Romantsev is back at work after leaving hospital, the Russian champions confirmed today.

Kidney stones operation
Former Russian national coach Romantsev underwent an operation to remove kidney stones last Thursday, after being taken ill following discussions over top striker Dmitri Sytchev, who intends to leave the club.

Duties reassume
Spartak technical director Aleksandr Shikunov said that the 48-year-old, who led Russia in the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals, has now resumed his duties following the surgery.

Second placed
This weekend, Spartak conceded a late equaliser against FC Uralan Elista in a 1-1 draw. They now trail Premier-Liga leaders and city rivals FC Lokomotiv Moskva by two points, having also played a game more.

Champions League draw
Romantsev will return to the Spartak bench for Saturday's match against FC Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast, two days after the club find out their opposition in the UEFA Champions League first group stage.