KR's Halldórsson recognised as Iceland's best
Friday, October 21, 2011
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Goalkeeper Hannes Halldórsson is celebrating being named Iceland's footballer of the year by his colleagues following his role in KR Reykjavík's double winning campaign.
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KR Reykjavík goalkeeper Hannes Halldórsson has been named Iceland's footballer of the year by his top-flight peers in the Úrvalsdeild.
The 27-year-old helped the capital side to a league and cup double in his first season at the club following a move from city rivals Fram Reykjavík. Halldórsson was ever-present with 22 appearances as KR won the Premier League title by three points from FH Hafnarfjördur; he also kept a clean sheet on his international debut as Iceland beat Cyprus 1-0 in a UEFA EURO 2012 qualifier last month.
"I didn't expect this," said Halldórsson. "Looking at the big picture this is very much a surprise because a short while ago I wouldn't have dared dream about it, not even in mid-season – never mind when I joined KR."
KR boss Rúnar Kristinsson collected the coach of the year accolade, while Icelandic Under-21 international Thórarinn Valdimarsson was recognised as the most promising player. The midfielder scored five goals in 21 games for third-placed ÍBV Vestmannaeyjar.
"I didn't expect this honour because there are many good players," said Valdimarsson. "I am not even in contention for the national team. First I have to play professionally abroad, but I am calm and if I keep improving that will hopefully open the way. If the opportunity comes, I will look at it carefully and see if it's right for me."
