Velimir Zajec

Zajec began his career at Dynamo Zagreb in 1974 aged 18. During 10 years at the club he helped them to two domestic cup wins, as well as the league title, their first title honour in 24 years.

He then transferred to Greek club Panathinaikos, for whom he was tremendously successful, and played over 100 games.

His performances at club level had seen Zajec capped by his country, whom he represented 40 times, many as captain.

Following retirement he spent two years (1989-1991) as 'Director of Football' at former club Dynamo Zagreb, before returning to Panathinaikos to run their academy. Before long he was promoted to head coach of the club.

After a period he again returned to Zagreb, this time as head coach, before moving once more back to Panathinaikos in 2002 to become 'Director of Football'.

In 2004, he moved to English club Portsmouth F.C to take up a position as executive director. He took over as team manager following the resignation of Harry Redknapp in November 2004, but five months later, after a poor run of results, he was replaced as team manager by Alain Perrin and reverted to his director's role.