Zoran Lemajic appointed as goalkeeping coach at Bharat FC

Bharat FC gave the finishing touch to their technical staff, adding goalkeeping coach Zoran Lemajic on Wednesday. The 54-year-old Montenegrin joined Bharat FC on Wednesday, immediately joining the first team for preseason training. Lemajic joins Bharat FC from Qatari side Al-Ahly Doha. Bharat FC will compete in its inaugural I-League season which kicks off on January 17.

Lemajic, born in Niksic in erstwhile Yugoslavia, was an accomplished goalkeeper who has played for a number of clubs in Europe. Having begun his career at FC Pristina in Kosovo, Lemajic had spells at Portuguese sides Farense, Boavista, Sporting Lisbon, Maritimo and also spent a couple of seasons at Scottish Premier League side Dunfermline Athletic FC. Lemajic also made one international appearance for Yugoslavia, making his debut against Hungary.

Hanging up his boots at the end of the 1997-1998 season, Lemajic dived into coaching, serving as the goalkeeping coach for FK Mogren and OFK Grbalj, two premier teams in his native Montenegro. He then moved on to become the goalkeeping coach of the Serbia and Montenegro team which qualified for the 2004 Summer Olympics as well as the 2006 FIFA World Cup. His last assignment was with Qatar Stars League side Al-Ahly.

Prasad Kapre, head of operations at Bharat FC, said that Lemajic's reputation as an expert goalkeeping coach apart from the experience that he has gained working with some top goalkeepers was the reason behind Bharat FC getting the Montenegrin on board. "Zoran has coached teams which have qualified for the World Cup. He is an experienced coach, someone who is up to speed on the latest technical changes and adjustments needed for professional footballers to succeed. He has already started working with our 'keepers and we are confident of developing them to their full potential," he said.

Stuart Watkiss, head coach of Bharat FC said that with Lemajic's arrival, a factor crucial to a football team's success had been fortified. "Goalkeepers are highly important components in professional football. A good, well-trained goalkeeper can give a team a lot of safety and confidence, allowing the side to express itself better upfront. Zoran has worked with some great 'keepers and having seen him work with our goalkeepers over two days, I am sure he is a great addition to the coaching staff," said Watkiss.

Lemajic, said that a chance to work in a vibrant culture along with the chance to work with some talented young shot-stoppers was the main reason behind his consenting to take over the role at Bharat FC. "This is a great adventure. I am really looking forward to making our goalkeepers technically sound, strong and very confident as we look to start the season on a strong note," he said.