S. Selvaraju will be returning to Hockey Club Pistoia for another playing stint in Italy, and this time he will be bringing along a fellow countryman.

The experienced forward, who helped the second division club finish second last season, managed to convince the club's management to sign Syamim Yusof as well to bolster their attack for a promotion push.

"I feel very proud because I could help get a friend to play there and this is my fourth time playing in Italy," said Selvaraju.

"I feel Syamim will make full use of this opportunity to make a name for himself.

"Last year we finished second, so I believe with Syamim, we can gain promotion to the first division."

As for Syamim, he believes it will be a good opportunity to achieve success at international level.

"My aim in Italy is to gain experience and play against various teams just like Selvaraju and the late Chua Boon Huat have done," said Syamim.

The duo will depart for Italy this Friday to link up with the squad ahead of the new season, which will begin on September 23.