Forgotten former Premier League star in shock career move after being named manager of struggling Cypriot minnows

FORMER Premier League star Jason Puncheon has been appointed manager of AEZ Zakakiou.

The 37-year-old takes charge of the struggling Cypriot minnows as they battle to avoid relegation.

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Jason Puncheon has been appointed AEZ Zakakiou boss[/caption]

AEZ Zakakiou currently sit 12th in the 14-team First Division.

They are just three points above the foot of the table and have conceded 54 goals in 23 games, making them the worst defence in the league.

It is Puncheon‘s second job in management after quitting second tier side Peyia earlier this year.

The ex-midfielder has plenty of experience in Cypriot football after hanging up his boots in the Mediterranean sun.

He spent a total of four seasons with Pafos and Anorthosis between 2019 and 2023.

It ended his incredible 20-year playing career that saw him begin at Wimbledon and move with the team as they became MK Dons.

He later went on to play for Southampton, Blackpool, QPR, Crystal Palace and Huddersfield in the Premier League.

Puncheon has legendary status at Selhurst Park, having played 169 times for the club.

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And with pressure growing on Roy Hodgson, some Palace fans joked he should be their new boss.

One said: “Punch is a manager? Get him in.”

Another added: “Give him the job until the end of season.”