This is a true story about how a captain of one national team and an ex Juventus player was tricked by Bolton to come and sign a contract. After his arrival in England he was told he has to undergo a trial. Later the club published the news about how he was unsuccessful. The truth is he never ever kicked the ball in Bolton. He was shocked to learn what has been written about him.
MIRKOVIC SAID: NO!!!!!!
Perhaps Zoran Bata Mirkovic would be perfect for Bolton Wanderers FC. At least that is what the English media seemed to think. Perhaps he would be ideal as cover for the injured player Leville. That is what the English media were writing. They already saw Serbia and Montenegro national team captain playing at Reebook stadium. They were sure Mirkovic would sign a contract. What can they say now? We asked Bata. "There will be no deal. We went separate ways."
He continued: "Before I went to England everything seemed perfect and Bolton had agreed to all of my conditions. Unfortunately, problems started as soon as we made direct contact. They said: "We want to see you". That surprised me. And I surprised them by saying: "You are watching me. I imagine you can also see me". But the English didn't give up: "I was listening and could hardly believe how persistent they were. They continued saying: "We are playing on two goals in today's training. This would be perfect for you." It seems they didn't understand me so I repeated: "You are watching me, you can see me. And if you have a video recorder and a tape of the England - Serbia and Montenegro match, you can see me there too. And I am not going to run away from the medical table either! Call the doctors and they can check me out."
Mirkovic has achieved so much in his illustrious career, playing for some of Europe's finest clubs and playing 59 times for his country. Zoran Mirkovic feels he does not have to prove his ability to anyone, even when a large sum of money is involved. But this struggling English club still hoped: "They continued insisting. They told me that Ibrahim Ba was here on trial for three months before he signed. I replied: "Good for Ibrahim, but I am Zoran Mirkovic. I have my principles and nobody will be walking all over me."