Rakovic returns to Slovenia
Monday, January 21, 2002
Article summary
Slovenia striker Ermin Rakovic has returned home from Israel to join 1. SNL champions NK Maribor.
Article body
Slovenia striker Ermin Rakovic has returned home from Israel to join 1. SNL champions NK Maribor.
European goal
The 24-year-old international has signed an 18-month contract after being released by Israeli side Hapoel Petach-Tikva. "I've joined the best team in Slovenia," said Rakovic. "The goal now is to win the title and qualify for the [UEFA] Champions League."
'Better opportunity'
Rakovic is hoping to impress Slovenia coach Srecko Katanec and earn a place in the squad for Korea/Japan this summer. "I also want to persuade Katanec to pick me for his World Cup squad and he will have a better opportunity to assess my game now that I am back home."
Third place
Rakovic almost moved to Maribor at the end of last season when his previous club, Olimpija Ljubljana, failed to offer him an improved contract. Maribor are in third place in the Slovenian first division, five points behind leaders NK Primorje. Rakovic is the second Slovenia striker Maribor have signed this month after Ermin Siljak was bought from Swedish champions Hammarby IF FF.
