Premier League cult hero named manager of Cypriot second-tier side based in party resort Ayia Napa
Former Crystal Palace star Jason Puncheon has been named manager of Cypriot second-division side Ayia Napa FC.
The 38-year-old spent nine seasons in the Premier League and enjoyed his most productive spell at Selhurst Park with the Eagles. The former midfielder netted 16 times in 169 matches for the club.
Arguably his most memorable contribution to the London outfit was his opening goal in Palace’s 2016 FA Cup final defeat to Manchester United.
Puncheon, who also had spells with Huddersfield, Southampton and MK Dons – as well as three clubs in Cyprus – is set to begin his next coaching role in a town known for its party scene.
The former midfielder has not fared well in his two previous managerial stints in the country, the second of which ended in his sacking after a month.
Jason Puncheon has been named the manager of Cypriot second-division side Ayia Napa FC
The 38-year-old made more than 160 appearances for Crystal Palace over a six-year spell
‘Ayia Napa Athletic Club announces the start of its partnership with coach Jason Puncheon.’ A statement from the club on social media read. ‘Jason has previously been the coach of the PEGEIA team and also of Sa Zakakiou. The agreement with him is until May 2025.
‘A member of the technical team will also be Christos Tsapatsoulis, who will be the direct partner of our new technician. The board of directors wishes both of them every success with our team.’
Ayia Napa currently sit third from bottom in the Cypriot second tier, with a solitary win to their name from their first six games.
In an interview with Mail Sport, Puncheon revealed why he opted to move to Cyprus as his playing career came to a close in 2019.
‘I had Championship options but Cyprus gave me a chance to play for a team that was fighting for something and having a good life with my family. It was an option I wanted to take.’ He said in September.
He added: ‘Footballers should look at these opportunities and take them more than we turn them down because there’s so much to learn,’ Puncheon explains.
‘It was route into coaching for me because the reality is I’m not Steven Gerrard or Wayne Rooney.
‘Maybe Crystal Palace would have said to me at the end of playing career “come and take the U15s”.
Puncheon urged others players to move abroad to gain opportunities in coaching, while crediting his former manager Alan Pardew with inspiring him to become a manager
‘But I thought if I go to Cyprus and make a name for myself it may be easier for me to step into coaching which as always the end goal.
‘Whereas in England, once I retired I would maybe be waiting forever.’
After completing his UEFA A and B badges alongside Juan Pablo Angel, Djimi Traore and Carlton Cole – Puncheon put his decision to move into coaching down to former Palace boss Alan Pardew.
