News.ssport.net (Jun 13, 2003) - Zoran Stratev, who led FK Cementarnica 55 to victory in the Macedonian Cup, has been appointed the new coach of league champions FK Vardar.

Stratev takes over from Gjoko Hadziveski, who parted company with Vardar two weeks ago, and has signed a two-year contract. "It is a great honour to be here at Vardar," he said. "But it is also a lot to live up to.

"They have had two really successful seasons, when they have won the championship, and I will try to maintain those standards and keep Vardar at the top in Macedonia. Next season I will be working with young but talented players and I hope we will retain the title," he added.

Stratev will also be working with the Brazilian Vandar, who today joined him at Vardar from Cementarnica in a four-year deal. The first competitive action facing the former FK Makedonija Skopje coach and his new charges will be in the UEFA Champions League first qualifying round.