Laizans lands Latvian honour
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
Article summary
PFC CSKA Moskva's Juris Laizans has been named Latvian Player of the Year for 2002.
Article body
Almost unanimous
Laizans won the vote almost unanimously, receiving 38 votes compared to the four votes for Arsenal FC defender Igors Stepanovs and Southampton FC striker Marians Pahars, who had won the award for the past three years.
CSKA success
Midfield player Laizans helped CSKA win the Russian Cup in 2002, as well the runners-up spot in the Russian Premier-Liga. However, his main success was with the Latvian national team, helping them to a draw against Sweden and scoring the decisive goal in a victory over Poland in qualifying matches for UEFA EURO 2004™.
Modest assessment
Laizans was modest about his achievement. "It is very flattering to be called the best," he said. "But I think that my Latvia team-mates have had a brilliant season as well. This sort of award adds to my responsibility, I will be judged even harsher next year. I hope to help both club and country."
