Nikica Jelavic

Croatian footballer, striker

Date of Birth: 27.08.1985
Country:

Croatia

Content:

Nikica Jelavic: Croatian Forward

Early Life and Career

- Nikica Jelavic was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina and began his football career with GOŠK Gabela.

- He later joined the youth team of Neretva in Metković, Croatia, before moving to Hajduk Split's development system.

- Jelavic made his debut for Hajduk in the 2002/03 season but established himself in the first team four years later.

- In 2007, Jelavic joined Belgian club Zulte-Waregem, where he had a modest season.

- He transferred to Rapid Wien in Austria for the 2008/09 season and became a regular starter.

- In the 2009/10 season, Jelavic impressed with 18 goals in 33 league appearances and 9 goals in 12 Europa League matches.

- In August 2010, Jelavic signed for Scottish club Rangers for a fee of £4 million.

- Jelavic made his Rangers debut in August 2010 and scored his first goal in September.

- Jelavic played a pivotal role in Rangers' Scottish League Cup victory in March 2011, scoring the winning goal in the final.

- He finished his first season with Rangers with 19 goals in 27 matches.

- In January 2012, English club Everton signed Jelavic from Rangers on a 4.5-year contract.

- He made his Everton debut in February and scored his first goal in March.

- Jelavic helped Everton reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup with his winning goal against Sunderland.

- He scored his first Premier League double for Everton against Norwich in April.

- Jelavic represented Croatia's under-21 team twice, scoring two goals.

- He made his senior international debut in 2009 and has participated in qualifying matches for the World Cup and European Championship.

Football

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