New Portsmouth manager Zajec in hunt to find own replacement
The former Yugoslavia World Cup captain, ironically enough, has succeeded Harry Redknapp - the man he was brought in to work alongside last month.
Zajec’s original remit was to build Pompey’s overseas scouting network, develop a youth academy and work on the £36 million re-development of Fratton Park.
But Redknapp’s reluctance to work under anyone resulted in a swift departure and after a good run (two wins, two draws, one defeat) in temporary charge, the former director of football at Greek side, Panathinaikos, has been handed control of the first team.
However, the Croatian is keen to resume his more general role when the club can find a manager with the right qualities.
“I hope the club actively still looks for somebody to take over and let me go back to the job I was brought here to do,” he said.
“But to be honest, I want to finish my contract here in another role - and eventually I hope the chairman finds a new man he wants to run the team.”
Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric is keen to restore some normality to the club after Zajec, who joined the club on a three-and-a-half-year contract last month, became Pompey’s sixth manager since 1999.
“Velimir and first-team coach Joe Jordan have already demonstrated a good partnership after the commotion that took place,” said Mandaric.
“At last I feel we have the start of real stability and somebody I can trust with it.
“I know this is not the role for which Velimir was originally intended and it took some negotiation. But I have asked him for his help in the football department as well, and he has responded the way I hoped he would.
“I still believe strongly in having a director of football. It can work for clubs in this country. But we are in the middle of a championship season and those things will have to take a back seat now for a while.
“The immediate future of the team and reassuring the supporters are the most important things.
“We are an ambitious club, not here just to survive. With Velimir’s leadership and Joe’s support, we have a squad that can go places once we have the infra-structure - but we have to make sure we stay in the Premiership this season.”
Zajec, who will continue his partnership with Jordan for the rest of the season, has never been a team manager but has been heavily involved in coaching at both his major clubs.
“I am a soldier of the club, and so I agreed to Mr Mandaric’s request. I have enjoyed it so far and I enjoy any job to do with football,” Zajec said.
“I hope Joe and I can bring success together,” he said.
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