Estonia end Rüütli's six-year tenure

The Estonian Football Association (EJL) has parted ways with national team coach Tarmo Rüütli after deciding against renewing his expiring contract.

The EJL hopes to announce a replacement for the 59-year-old, who had been in charge since late 2007, in the next two weeks. "We made this decision after last Friday's friendly against Azerbaijan [a 2-1 win]," said EJL president Aivar Pohlak.

"I want to state that Tarmo is the most successful head coach in Estonia's history. We produced some beautiful performances, played some great matches and delivered some unbelievable results in UEFA EURO 2012 qualification."

Following a brief spell in the post at the turn of the millennium, Rüütli was reappointed in December 2007 and achieved his best result when he guided Estonia to the UEFA EURO 2012 play-offs, where they lost to the Republic of Ireland. Rüütli had previously won three Meistriliiga titles and as many Estonian Cups with FC Levadia Tallinn, and also coached FC Flora Tallinn and JK Tulevik Viljandi.

"Six years is a long time," added Pohlak, referring to Rüütli's tenure. "We decided he should leave now, but we don't exclude the possibility of continuing our relationship in future. We thank Tarmo for his work and will present him with a golden plaque at Sunday's EJL gala event."