Ali Daei takes over Persepolis reins

[Celticrugby]

Ali Daei takes over Persepolis reins

Tuesday, 29 December 2009 01:32



TEHRAN: Iran legend Ali Daei has been appointed as new Persepolis head coach on Monday.

The popular Tehran outfit sacked their Croatian coach Zlatko Krancjar following team’s 1-1 draw with Saba Battery last week.

The former champions are in third position in the Iran Pro League standings with 33 points after 21 games, ten points behind leaders Sepahan.

“Persepolis was the main reason for my comeback and I believe the club fans are patient enough to support their team for all the matches,” Daei told media persons.

“I have signed one-and-a-half-year contract and I think the team could have won more matches but luck was not on their side.”

Daei had led Saipa to a surprise Iran League crown and to the knockout stage of the AFC Champions League in his first coaching assignment before taking over the reins of Iran national team in early 2008.

He led Team Melli to the final phase of 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers but was fired after losing all chances of qualification in March 2009.