Morimoto returns to Catania

Japanese striker Takayuki Morimoto has returned to Catania after suffering relegation out of Serie A last season with Novara.

Deal ensures that striker will remain in Serie A

Japanese striker Takayuki Morimoto has returned to Catania after suffering relegation out of Serie A last season with Novara. The 24-year-old was previously co-owned by both clubs, but a deal has been struck which returns full ownership rights to Catania. Rossazzurri president Nino Pulvirenti is happy to have Morimoto back at the club and is confident the player will make an impact in his second stint at Stadio Angelo Massimino. "We've always believed in Morimoto," he said. "We're happy to have him back and welcome him with open arms." Morimoto joined Catania in 2006 from J-League outfit Tokyo Verdy, but left the Serie A side last summer for Novara after struggling for regular first-team football. He was arguably Novara's best player last season, netting four goals, but could not stop them from being relegated out of the Italian top flight.