Australia defender Ivan Franjic has returned from a short spell in Russia to sign with A-League side Melbourne City, the club said Thursday.

Franjic, 27, who was part of Australia's Asian Cup triumph at home in January, has signed a three-year deal with City.

The full-back played 115 A-League matches with Brisbane Roar, where he won two premierships and three championships.

He has been capped by his country 19 times and featured in last year's FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Franjic had an ill-fated spell at FC Torpedo Moscow amid reports of unpaid wages before recently returning to Australia.

"Followers of the A-League and Socceroos know of Ivan's quality and ability, so to bring him in for next season is positive," City's Dutch coach John van't Schip said.