Velikonja - Malky got his man

Etien Velikonja: A long-term target of Bluebirds boss Malky Mackay

New Cardiff signing Etien Velikonja believes manager Malky Mackay was the major influence behind his transfer from NK Maribor.

The Slovenia international striker joined the Championship side on a four-year deal last week after scoring 20 goals for his native club last season.

Velikonja claims he was a long-term target of Bluebirds boss Mackay and believes the manager pushed the move through.

He told Maribor's official website: "I really didn't think about leaving Maribor, but then in a short period of time all this happened.

"I'm really happy that such a big club as Cardiff City wanted me.

Fond

"I know who is behind all this - manager Malky Mackay. He is very fond of me, he has been tracking me for some years now.

"I know that he wanted me even when he was at Watford."

Velikonja says it is a dream come true to be playing in England and cannot wait to get started with the Bluebirds.

"It is a pleasure that I will be able to play in England," he added. "Everybody dreams about such a transfer and I believe that this is the right move for me."