Roman Pavlyuchenko believes he improved at Tottenham but it was the right decision to join Lokomotiv Moscow

The Russian striker, who scored 42 goals for Spurs despite struggling for first-team opportunities, is looking forward to a title challenge with his new side

By Arthur Virgo

Europa League,Roman Pavlyuchenko,Tottenham Hotspur FC v Shamrock Rovers FC
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Roman Pavlyuchenko believes he has made the right decision to leave Tottenham and return to Russia with Lokomotiv Moscow.

The Russian international striker scored 42 goals in 113 appearances for Spurs after arriving from Spartak Moscow for 14 million pounds, but never established himself in the starting lineup and only managed 5 substitute appearances in the Premier League this season.

After the north London side brought in Louis Saha from Everton on transfer deadline-day, the 30-year-old opted for an 8 million pound switch back to his homeland.

Reflecting on leaving England, Pavlyuchenko told ITAR-TASS: "I was playing in a strong league, I enjoyed the game and I scored some important goals. During the time I spent there, I developed as a footballer and I became more professional.

"I think all the decisions I have made during my career have been right. My decision to sign for Lokomotiv is not an exception. I could've stayed at Tottenham and dealt with meaningless things. My desire is to play. I decided, together with my family, that this is the best way.

"Lokomotiv are a top team and I want to help to reach the serious goals. This season it's a reality to win the Russian title."

Pavlyuchenko also expects to feature for the Russia national team at Euro 2012.

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