Cyprus-Forum.com

[originalsmiler]

http://www.lgr.co.uk/sport/news/13773/a ... t-striker/

Cyprus striker Michalis Konstantinou had signed to Iraklis on a twelfth-month deal following his release from reigning champions Olympiacos.

The 30-year-old forward had impressed in his performances for the Cypriot squad - and scored twice in the stunning 5-2 victory over the Republic of Ireland in the Euro 2008 qualifiers.

The powerful Paralimni-born hit man, scorer of 24 goals in 60 games for his country said his reason for joining the club was in part driven by emotion. Iraklis was the first side that introduced him to Greek football following his aquisition in 1993 to Thessaloniki.

He cost Panathinaikos £8 million when moving from Iraklis in 2001, and moved to rivals Olympiacos, in 2005.

"I feel like I'm returning home", Michalis had responded. "My aim is to play football and to assist in helping Iraklis. I don't like too use too many words, I came to work. Iraklis has given me a lot, it gave me the chance to become well-known, and I don't forget that.

I would like to thank the president who wanted to sign me in January. The moment the contract with Olympiacos was not renewed, no other team in Greece was good enough for me, other than Iraklis."

The agreement was ratified on Saturday 30 August at the Mika headquarters.

The club president Antonis Remos had insisted: "The contract may just be for a year, however the relationship between Michalis Kosntantinou and Iraklis is not determined by a piece of paper." The popular singer harbours aspirations to lift the team to dizzier heights - and the latest signing - was a significant step in the direction.

"We will attempt everything to transform Iraklis into a big football club. We don't impose goals to where we could reach, every Sunday, shall dream that Iraklis will reach dizzier heights," Antonis had exclaimed.

LGR.CO.UK