Former Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace striker Shefki Kuqi is the latest name to have applied for the vacant Gillingham manager’s job.

The 38 year old hung up his boots in 2013, ending his playing career with Scottish side Hibernian after a glittering career that saw the Yugoslav play for the likes of Sheffield Wednesday, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United.

Born in Yugoslavia, Kuqi went on to play international football for Finland, scoring eight goals in 62 appearances and having retired from playing, has now forged a management career.

Shefki has been managing out in Finland with FC Honka where he has helped the side qualify for the Europa League.

The moment Kuqi took charge, the club pretty much collapsed financially and a week into the job he lost his Chief Executive with Shefki practically running the club himself, paying bills out of his own pocket.

Using his contacts in Europe and England, shefki got a team together and fought to save the club from relegation, which he succeeded in (having already been deducted points). Having worked, frankly, miracles at Honka, the club now no longer have a licence, the Finnish Federation removed the club from their leagues.

He is desperate to come back to England and with that, has applied for the vacant role at Gillingham.

Speaking exclusively to Kent Sports News, Kuqi revealed he had put his name in the hat for the job at Priestfield:

“I have had 14 years experience of playing in England at the highest level and lower leagues. I know what it takes to have a successful team.”

“I want to bring that experience back to England and help take a club forward playing attractive football. I’ve learnt from fantastic coaches such as Roy Hodgson, and Brendan Rodgers.”

“I want to use those experiences with a club in England. When I heard about the Gillingham vacancy, I jumped at the chance to apply for the role. I feel it is a great place for me to show my ability as a manager, having already beaten relegation managing a club with no money in Finland and being favourites for relegation”

With his contacts that stretch all over Europe and within the Premier League, Kuqi also went on to explain how he would look to bring some high profile names to Priestfield.

Former England striker James Beattie confirmed on Wednesday morning that he too had applied, whilst Newport County manager Justin Edinburgh wouldn’t rule out a move when quizzed.

With the race now hotting up, it will be interesting to see who lands the role at Kent’s League One club.