Waterford bring Puri back to Ireland

Waterford have announced the signing of Estonian international midfielder Sander Puri – the 12th new addition to arrive at the RSC ahead of the upcoming 2017 campaign.

Puri, who has signed from Estonian outfit Kalju Nömme, is no stranger to League of Ireland football having made 27 appearances for Sligo Rovers in 2015.

The acquisition of the 28-year-old further underlines Waterford’s promotion credentials, as they reportedly fended off Premier Division interest for the player capped 69 times by Estonia.

First-team coach Alan Reynolds is confident his new signing, who has played in nine different countries, will not only add quality on the pitch but also use his experience in the dressing room.

He said, “Sander made a big impact on the League of Ireland in his previous stint here with Sligo Rovers and we’re confident he can replicate that in the upcoming season.

“He has proven quality both domestically and on the international scene and with the wealth of experience that he’ll bring to our squad, it’s a huge boost for Waterford FC heading into the new campaign.”

Puri also expressed his delight after returning to Ireland commenting, “Coming abroad, the first few weeks or even months are usually difficult settling in but it was great in Ireland previously, that’s why I decided to return.

“I settled here well in 2015, enjoyed the country and standard of football with Sligo, now hopefully I can do the same here in Waterford.”

He continued, “It’s a young team but a talented one, hopefully we can push on and compete for the title and promotion.

“It’s my first time working with Pat (Fenlon) and Alan but they are very good and very professional, the sessions have been great and I can’t wait to get on the pitch now.”

Puri began his career in Estonia and won four league championships with Levadia Tallinn before spells in Greece, Poland, Hungary and Finland.

He also represented St Mirren and York City before his season with Sligo Rovers and thereafter helped MFK Karvina to win promotion to the Czech top flight in 2016.