3/1 To Win
Aljosa Asanovic made what he admitted was a long-awaited return to Derby County last week – and the former Croatian international midfielder loved every second of being back at Pride Park Stadium.
Asanovic, who is now 54, was a special guest of the club at last Thursday’s Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round tie against Manchester United.
Incredibly, it was the first time he had returned to the club since his departure at the end of 1997.
He was introduced to the crowd before kick-off, receiving a warm reception from the home faithful, being taking his seat in the stands to watch the Rams take on the Red Devils.
Asanovic’s time at Derby was brief, a year and a half in total between the summer of 1996 and December 1997, but he certainly made a big impact following his arrival from Hajduk Split.
He linked up with the Rams as they stepped up to the top-flight under the late Jim Smith and was instrumental as Derby retained their Premiership status, appearing 38 times and scoring six goals.
However, he was less influential in his second season and after just five appearances he moved to Italy to join Napoli in the lead-up to the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.
Asanovic’s impact, showing his creative class in the middle of the park, is always fondly recalled by Derby’s supporters – which was demonstrated by the reception he received when stepping onto the Pride Park playing surface.
Speaking to RamsTV on the night of the Manchester United game, Asanovic said: “It is my first time back in Derby after almost 23 years and I am very happy to be back.
“I never forget my past time here and Derby County for me is one of the best clubs of my career.
“It is a big pleasure to return, where I feel I played very well, and see the supporters; my people.”
He added: “I am so happy people see me as a special player during my time here because it only lasted about a year and a half.”
Asanovic’s arrival coincided one of the most exciting eras in the club’s history.
After securing promotion from the First Division under the Bald Eagle, Derby were back strutting their stuff against English football’s elite.
With a move to Pride Park Stadium in the offing too, there was plenty to be excited about on and off the pitch.
Asanovic recalled: “I will never forget Jim Smith, first of all. He was a great man and a great coach.
“We had really good players too like Dean Sturridge, Igor Stimac, Gary Rowett and Ashley Ward. It was an amazing time for me. You don’t forget these things because at that time we played very good football.”
He added: “When I joined Derby we played at the Baseball Ground and it was an old, old stadium but it had a real charm when I played there.
“I also played at Pride Park and it is an amazing stadium. The club has great supporters too and it has wonderful supporters.”
Another Croatian, Igor Stimac, played an instrumental role in Asanovic moving to Derby.
Stimac, a player idolised by Derby supporters, was a team-mate at Hajduk Split and on the international stage.
He recommended Asanovic to Smith and, following the conclusion of the UEFA European Championships in England during the summer of 1996, the duo were reunited.
“I played in England in the European Championships during 1996, which was a big tournament, and it was also when I joined Derby County,” Asanovic said.
“I really enjoyed being at the club in that time and England is a special country for me; I have many friends here.
“Igor played a big role in me joining. He knew me very well and he proposed me to Jim Smith as a midfielder for Derby.”
In total, Asanovic made 43 appearances during his time with Derby and found the net on seven occasions.
