I wanted to rejoin Persepolis, Eamon Zayed says

Tehran Times – TEHRAN, Eamon Zayed has revealed he wanted to return to Persepolis before agreeing a move to Malaysian football team Sabah FA.

Dublin-born Zayed, who spent the second half of last season on loan to Sligo Rovers, has joined Malaysian club Sabah Rhinos.

“I know the coach (George O’Callaghan) and he asked me to come and play and score goals because they need a striker,” Zayed told Tehran Times.

“They’ve already signed El Hadj Diouf, who is a great player and some foreign players so I said I would come and help them,” the Libyan international added.

Zayed had already said he would like to join Persepolis but he signed a contract with the Malaysian team.

“I waited for Persepolis but the coach (Hamid Derakhshan) said he doesn’t need me,” the 31-year-striker said.

Zayed was given the “Mr. hat trick” nickname when he scored three goals against Persepolis arch-rival Esteghlal in February 2012.

Zayed praised his former club after it defeated Esteghlal 2-1 on Sunday in Iran Professional League (IPL).

“It was a great match and it’s nice to see some goals in the derby. I am really happy Persepolis won the match. I watched the game and it was a really good game. Persepolis deserved this victory,” Zayed added.