Lincar links up with Panathinaikos

Erik Augustin Lincar, the out-of favour FC Steaua Bucuresti midfield player, has been signed by Panathinaikos FC and will be unveiled by his new club in Athens tomorrow.

Russian winter
Lincar, a 23-year-old with five caps for Romania, has been with Steaua for five years, scoring seven goals in 106 games, but earlier in the season was relegated to the reserves by the Steaua coach, Victor Piturca. In the winter break Lincar almost moved to FC Spartak Moscow – playing in some friendly games for the Russians – but the clubs failed to agree terms.

Steaua struggle
Piturca, who did not plan to renew Lincar’s contract when it was due to expire after Saturday’s final league match at SC Astra Ploiesti, did recall the player to the first team but Steaua still struggled in their defence of their title.

'Gladly come back'
“I was never upset with Mr Piturca,” said Lincar today. “Of course, we had some disagreements, but now our relationship is good. Unfortunately, this year we didn’t have the motivation within the team any more – that’s why Steaua couldn’t defend the title. But I would gladly come back to Steaua.”

Good opportunity
As for his move to Greece, Lincar was optimistic for the future: “It is a step forward. Even though Panathinaikos will play in the UEFA Cup and not in the [UEFA] Champions League, it is a very good opportunity for me to get back closer to the national team.”