Blomqvist back in Sweden

United success
The 29-year-old Blomqvist, who helped Manchester United FC win the UEFA Champions League in 1999, was available on a free transfer after being released by another English club, Charlton Athletic FC, at the end of the 2002/03 Premiership season.

'Tough decision'
Now he will return to the Champions League, albeit the second qualifying round, with Djurgården. "It was a very tough decision," said Blomqvist, who had been linked with a return to IFK Göteborg. "I have a lot of great memories from my time at IFK and I've got a lot of friends there, but Djurgården felt like the right challenge for me. There were a lot of factors that I had to think about, but I fully believe in their way of playing football, and I believe I've done the right thing."

Feeling good
Blomqvist, who becomes the second new face at the Stockholms Stadion this week after the arrival of Dutch striker Geert van Ouden, moved from IFK to AC Milan in 1996. He then played for Parma AC, United and Everton FC before moving to Charlton, but throughout his career he has been plagued by injuries. "I've been to hell and back, but now I finally feel OK," he said.

Coach delighted
Djurgården coach Sören Åkeby was delighted to get the player on a contract until the end of the season. "It's a great coup we've made here," he said. "Jesper is a brilliant player, and will become a valuable asset with his flair, experience and unpredictable style."