Estonia's finest opts against England

Fredrikstad FK centre-back Raio Piiroja has decided against a possible move to England just days after being voted Estonian Player of the Year for the second successive season.

Trial talk
Piiroja has been linked to several English clubs having produced a string of fine Norwegian Tippeligaen performances in 2007, and having also scored two goals in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying. But the Estonia defender insists rest is the first thing on his mind after a long campaign. "I was about to go on trial at Queen's Park Rangers FC, but as they postponed it, I decided not to," Piiroja told uefa.com. "It's been a long season, I need a rest and also to treat my stomach muscle problem. I would like to spend time with my wife, go to the theatre, as well as playing some tennis and starting preparing for the new season."

Back on top
The 28-year-old had comfortably topped the Estonian player poll earlier this month, retaining his crown. "Winning was not a big surprise for me, although I was more confident last year after I had scored two goals in Fredrikstad's Norwegian Cup final victory," Piiroja said. "I had a good season in Norway and the goals against Andorra and F.Y.R. Macedonia made me Estonia's top scorer in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying. But if it had been my choice, I would have voted for Joel Lindpere, who had an excellent season for the national team and also for Tromsø IL in Norway."

Goalscorer
Piiroja, formerly with FC Flora, has earned great respect in the Tippeligaen over the last two seasons and this term scored three times in 22 matches to help Fredrikstad finish eighth. Although Piiroja's goals also helped Estonia beat Andorra and hold F.Y.R. Macedonia, they came sixth in their seven-team qualifying Group E. Still, he is confident results will improve. "This has been a difficult year, especially for the national team," Piiroja said. "We had a change of coach in the summer and we are already on our third with Tarmo Rüütli taking over. I agree completely with the latest appointment, as I believe it is time for a domestic coach and I have complete faith in his abilities. He has been very successful with FC Levadia Tallinn and I'm sure he will bring confidence back to the side."