Planet Swans ArchivesI stood on the North Bank when the Swans were in the old first division and have many memories from that time, but to watch Max Thompson’s thunderbolt goal against Arsenal from a Dzemal Hadziabdic free kick has to be my most special moment
Popular fan’s favourite, ex Swans left back from the Toshack era is current national manger of Qatar. Returned from his home in Mostar in Bosnia in 1992. Briefly helped in development officer role with alan cutis before heading to the middle east to take up the coaches role with league outfit Al-Ithead Sports. Won numerous cups and leagues with the club before taking on the national post at a caretaker level at the latter stages of qualifying for France 98.
1980-1985 POSITION Left Back
DATE OF BIRTH Saturday, 25th July 1953
PLACE OF BIRTH Yugoslavia
DEBUT Saturday, 6th September 1980 in a 1-0 win at Bristol City (Aged: 27)
CLUB CAREER 87 League apps (+2 as sub), 2 goals
SEASONAL RECORD: 1980/81-1984/85 Transferred from Velez Mostar, Yugoslavia in August 1980
Without a point before Jimmy took the reins, Qatar narrowly avoided qualifiaction by losing to Saudi Arabia in the final game. saudi qualified, with Iran (a side Jimmy had beaten but early poor results hapered the Qatarians) went on to beat Austrailia in the play off. Took the job on fullt ime basis where he has arranged high profile fixtuers with Bosnia (won)and Nigeria and even invited the Welsh team who only just pipped the persian gulf side 1-0. Recently qualified for the Aisian championships but are stuck with! favourites Japan in the first round group stage.
His family remain in Birchgrove but Jimmy does return home from time to time. Jimmy is also arranging soem warm up games against some top flight English club sides. Hollins replacement anybody?
Submitted by Jeremy Harding
