Ex-Fenerbahce midfielder happy to return to former club

By Erkan Tiryaki

ANKARA (AA) - Mehmet Aurelio, former Fenerbahce midfielder, said on Friday that he is extremely happy to serve as assistant head coach for the Turkish club's first team in football.

"We have a perfect working environment [in Fenerbahce]. The technical staff and players are supporting me very much. I thank them all. I am very happy," Aurelio told the club's TV channel, FB TV.

The Brazilian born Turkish national said that he vows to repeat old glories, referring to the Super Lig titles.

Aurelio, 42, was a Fenerbahce player from 2003 to 2008 to be the Turkish champion 3 times (2004, 2005 and 2007).

He went into the Fenerbahce history, winning the Super Lig in the club's centenary in 2007.

The Turkish powerhouse was established in 1907.

Aurelio was one of the integral parts of Fenerbahce, having 218 appearances.

He produced 18 goals and 35 assists for the Istanbul team.

Aurelio stated that he had good memories of Fenerbahce.

He said that he talked to the team's Brazilian players Jailson and Luiz Gustavo and Aurelio wants them to stay in Fenerbahce for long years, referring to their contribution to the pitch.

Aurelio said that he can't forget several matches in his career.

"I remember the first leg against Chelsea [in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals in 2008]. We won it 2-1 in Kadikoy. It's always in my mind. There was a fabulous atmosphere."

Chelsea eliminated Fenerbahce in the last eight over 2-0 win in the second leg at Stamford Bridge, London.

In 2006, Aurelio became a Turkish citizen to play for this country's national team. Born Marco Aurelio, the player changed it as Mehmet.

"In the Turkish national team, I always remember the match against Czech Republic [UEFA EURO 2008]. We came back from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2. It was a very beautiful match. There was a wonderful atmosphere as well," Aurelio remarked.

He had 37 appearances for Turkey.

Aurelio played for the Turkish national team in the EURO 2008 as Turkey reached the semifinals in this contest.