United manager’s career is like a plot from a crazy movie

IF Csaba Laszlo’s tales from his coaching past appear too good to be true, just remember this is a man who has worked with the best individuals in the game and the most ridiculous.

There have been several experiences from his time across Europe which sound like they belong in a crazy movie with a plot that would leave fans scratching their heads.

Of course, many of those weird and wonderful moments centre on Laszlo’s spell at Hearts between 2008 and 2010, where he faced ruthless former owner, Vladimir Romanov.

‘If I was to tell you what the most bizarre incident was working under Mr Romanov, I think I would need three days to tell you. It could create a huge book — and it might be the bestseller before Christmas,’ said Laszlo.

The 53-year-old returned to Scottish football this week with Dundee United, the latest instalment for this colourful character.

However, an earlier chapter in the Romanianborn Hungarian’s career brings some of the brightest memories. A love story with a footballing legend.

In 2004, Laszlo joined the Hungarian international set-up and was assistant coach to Lothar Matthaus, a World Cup-winning captain with West Germany in 1990.

Matthaus, the most-capped German player of all time, starred in five World Cups, so it is little wonder Laszlo cherishes their relationship.

‘Lothar is a fantastic guy,’ said Laszlo. ‘I admired him before I worked with him because, in my opinion, he was the best player in the world. He was very enthusiastic.

‘He was very enthusiastic and we were more than friends.

‘If you are new, it is important to understand the mentality to know how to work with the players. If you work with someone, you have to respect them.

‘He was the big guy and I was the small guy, but he never pushed me to the side. He protected me and showed me the best way.

‘This was a great time and I keep this with me. For this reason, it is not my style to come here (to United) and ask for new players, a fiveyear contract, more money and to bring staff in.’

During his career, working in the likes of Belgium, Lithuania, Slovakia and his homeland, Laszlo has experienced different styles and footballing cultures.

None, however, have proved to be as turbulent as his time at Tynecastle.

Life in the hotseat began in July 2008 and lasted until January 2010 — the longest reign of any manager under Romanov.

He continued to find new ways to baffle not only those working in Gorgie, but the whole of Scottish football.

‘Romanov was an introvert,’ said Laszlo. ‘He didn’t tell me what to do but he wanted to see me all the time. He was the owner.

‘This man tried to do something for his club. I think the advisor around him was the biggest problem.’