Katanec returns as Slovenia coach

The Football Association of Slovenia have reappointed Srecko Katanec as head coach of the national team following the resignation of Slavisa Stojanovic.

Katanec, 49, led his country to the 2002 World Cup at the end of a successful four-year spell, resigning after the eastern European nation failed to win a single group game before enjoying stints with Olympiacos, Macedonia and the United Arab Emirates.

A statement on the Football Association of Slovenia’s official website confirmed that Katanec will be formally unveiled on Friday, with his first assignment a friendly match against Bosnia-Herzegovina on February 6 before World Cup qualifying continues against Iceland in March.

Slovenia have picked up three points from four games in Group E and trail leaders Switzerland by seven points, with Norway, Albania and Cyprus also competing to reach Brazil next year.