The Royals have agreed a season-long deal to take Georgian international Zurab Khizanishvili on loan from Premier League club Blackburn Rovers.

Khizanishvili, 28, is captain of his national team and can play anywhere at the back or in a holding midfield role.

He has excellent experience in the top flight and close to 300 career games under his belt, including the best part of 70 caps for his country and games in both the Champions League and UEFA Cup.

Director Of Football Nick Hammond said, "We are very pleased to add Zurab to our squad and this is another signing that will add very good experience.

"He can play centre half, full back or as a holding midfielder so he also brings excellent versatility and I am sure he will prove to be a good addition."

He trained with his new teammates on Monday morning and will be available for our trip to Sheffield United on Tuesday evening. He takes the squad number 44.

Khizanishvili began his career with three clubs in Tblisi; Dinamo, Norch and Lokomotiv before attracting the attention of Dundee, who signed him in 2001.

His form at Dens Park earned him a prestigious move to Rangers, for whom he played in both the Champions League and UEFA Cup.

After three years at Ibrox, Mark Hughes paid £500,000 to take him to Blackburn and he thrived under the Welshman's management.

He has spent a loan spell at Newcastle this season, as well as playing for Blackburn in both the Carling Cup and FA Cup during this current campaign.

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