DR Congo striker Dieumerci Mbokani rejoins Anderlecht
Last updated on .From the section Football
DR Congo striker Dieumerci Mbokani has completed his controversial return to Belgian giants Anderlecht.
The 25-year-old signed a three-year contract from French side Monaco.
Mbokani sealed the move despite protests from the club's fans for taunting them in 2009.
"We realize that this transfer is an emotive subject and Dieumerci Mbokani realizes that he has made certain mistakes," Anderlecht president Roger Vanden Stock said.
Mbokani moved from Anderlecht to arch rivals Standard Liege in 2007 and taunted fans of the club when he scored in a key league game in 2009.
But Anderlecht chiefs are convinced that the Congolese striker is a meaningful addition to the squad.
"He is very eager to reform both on and off the field," Stock said.
"A lot has been said and written about the striker's behaviour, but both technical staff and management believe in Dieumerci's talent.
"He is very motivated to win prizes with Anderlecht. The many conversations we had with him have shown that.
"Our choice is a considered one. The player now has to win the hearts of the fans."
A Facebook group, set up to oppose Mbokani's return to Anderlecht, has so far attracted 800 members.
The fans have not forgiven the striker since he celebrated in front when playing for arch rivals Standard Liege.
Monaco signed Mbokani from Standard Liege for US$10m last year but he failed to make an impact.
He was sent out on loan to German club side Wolfsburg early this year but his fortunes failed to improve.
Mbokani played for Anderlecht in the 2006/07 season and scored four goals in nine matches before moving to Liege where he won two league titles.
He started his career with TP Mazembe before moving to join Anderlecht on loan in 2006.
