Chris Zoricich

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Chris Zoricich (born May 3, 1969 in Auckland) is a successful New Zealand soccer player who frequently represented his country in the 1980s and 90s. Of Croat origin, he began playing soccer in his native Auckland for Blockhouse Bay Under-7's.

"Zorro" began his senior career with Papatoetoe in Auckland before moving onto play for Leyton Orient in England between 1990-1993. He made a total of 59 first team appearances, including 12 more as a substitute during his time in East London, before he was made to return home due to work permit restrictions. A group of Orient fans even protested outside the home office to try to keep him in the country!

In 1994, Chris returned to New Zealand to play for Central United, a Croatian-influenced team. His brother, Michael (who played Davis Cup tennis for New Zealand), and his father, Ivan, also turned out for Central at various points. However it was not long before Zorro was on the move again, this time to Brisbane Strikers in the Australian National Soccer League. He spent two seasons in Australia before heading to England to try his luck again. He made one appearance for Welling United in the Vauxhall Conference and also had a trial spell with Chelsea, at that time managed by Ruud Gullit. During his time at Stamford Bridge, Chris never made the first team but was a regular in the reserve side's defence.

Chris returned to Australia to re-sign for the Brisbane Strikers in 1997, after the club had won the NSL championship on their home ground. He then ended his NSL career by playing for Newcastle Breakers and Newcastle United, before returning to England as his English wife was homesick. After trialling with League Two side, Mansfield Town, he signed for Margate in the Nationwide Conference and then moved on to St. Albans City in the Conference South Division. This was followed by short spells at Harlow Town, Boreham Wood, Heybridge Swifts and Wealdstone, where he currently plays.

Zorro made his international debut against Israel on 27th March 1988. He has said he particularly remembers his debut because he gave a penalty away! However this did not stop Chris going on to win 57 caps in full internationals, including captaining the All Whites at the 1999 Confederations Cup in Mexico and in 2003 in France.