Metalurgs put their faith in Muhanov

Two-year contract
Metalurgs had previously appointed Vladimir Fedotov and then Viktor Zernov only for both men to leave the post. Fedotov resigned as he was not happy with the set-up at the club while Zernov quit for health reasons. Director Aleksandrs Rogoza confirmed that Muhanov has signed a two-year contract, and has already started his work at the Liepaja club. He will take Metalurgs to their first pre-season training camp, due to start in Turkey on 19 January.

Recommended by Romantsev
Muhanov took Russian side FC Saturn Ramenskoye from the second division to the first in 1997. Oddly enough, in 2001 he was an assistant coach to Zernov - the man whose position he has taken - at Premier-Liga side Chernomorets Novorossiysk. Zernov, who was hired by Metalurgs only several weeks ago, has left the club. Muhanov was recommended for the job by Russian national team and FC Spartak Moscow head coach Oleg Romantsev. Metalurgs and Spartak signed an agreement last year, which provides for the exchange of players and coaches.

Katasonov signs deal
Meanwhile, ahead of their pre-season camp in Turkey, Metalurgs have announced that Russian forward Alexander Katasonov has agreed a new contract with the club. Katasonov finished last season the joint leading scorer in the Virsliga with 23 goals.