Fleetwood in Uzbekistan link-up

The relationship will open up commercial avenues for both sides, while it is hoped the Cod Army will tour Uzbekistan next pre-season and plans are afoot for Lokomotiv players to come to Fleetwood's new training ground to aid their development.

Representatives from the Central Asia team flew to Britain last week and watched Saturday's loss to Colchester and a party from the Lancashire club are expected to make the return journey this summer.

"We felt growing the club beyond UK shores was essential to reach out to a wider audience, both in the way of general recognition but also to attract new sponsors and partnership opportunities, and generally growing the awareness of Fleetwood Town and our story so far," said Fleetwood chief executive Steve Curwood.

"This exciting opportunity, with another proactive and relatively new club that Lokomotiv are, will allow work with a region, as yet unexplored by European clubs.

"It will enable us to share experiences, ideas, and set up future meaningful arrangements.

"As a very progressive club it also provides an opportunity to continue to learn about new ways of doing things which is important if we are to continue to progress as a football club.''

Lokomotiv were only formed in 2002 but they finished runners-up in the top league in the past two seasons and have competed in the Asian Champions League.