Free State Stars have announced the return of former head coach Giovanni Solinas to Goble Park following the dismissal of Frenchman Denis Lavagne.

Solinas resigned at the end of last season due to family issues but has come to rescue of the club which languish at the bottome of the table.

‘We as a club are delighted to re-unite with Giovanni Solinas,’ said General manager Rantsi Mokoena.

‘He is one of those coaches respected by many football fraternity for his good brand of football.

‘Solinas was an automatic preference after we parted ways with Lavagne, as our players liked and understand his football philosophy.

‘With the two weeks break before our next match it will give him ample time to build up a strong team that will at least start winning matches starting with the next match against Maritzburg United.

‘We are happy his family matters are now resolved and he will start his duties immediately following the contract termination of Frenchman Denis Lavagne.

‘Themba [Sithole] who was in charge of the last two matches will return to his duties at the development team.’