Noel Turner has often been described as the unsung hero of Sliema Wanderers. Unassuming and modest off the pitch, but determined and committed on it, the 28-year Sliema captain prefers to let his feet do the talking. His no-frills approach has reaped its just rewards.

After leading Sliema to their first Premier League title in seven years, Turner's sterling contribution throughout season 2002-2003 earned him the much-coveted MFA Footballer of the Year award for the second time.

Turner was officially declared as Malta's best player of the season during yesterday's MFA council meeting at the Centenary Hall but in truth, the writing had been on the wall for quite some time.

Turner had emerged as the leading contender to secure this award after topping the charts with 60 points following the first round of voting.

"I am extremely delighted to have won this prestigious accolade," was Turner's first reaction.

"I believe it's every player's ambition to be honoured as the best player of the season. Being named MFA Footballer of the Year for the second time in my career adds to my satisfaction."

As is his wont, Turner was only too willing to give credit to his fellow team-mates for making his dreams come true this season.

"This award rounds off a memorable campaign for Sliema and myself. My no.1 goal was to help the team win the league and that triumph certainly played a part in my personal success.

"Had the team not performed so well during the season, I don't think I would have had a chance of winning the award. My thanks go to my club-mates because it was a collective effort," the Sliema player added.

Turner was a burgeoning midfielder when he was named MFA Footballer of the Year at the end of season 1995-96, the last time Sliema were crowned champions of Malta before last month.

Seven years on, Turner has more than fulfilled his promise, cementing his place in the Sliema team and in the national squad.

"The difference between now and 1996 is that I have matured as a player. My responsibilities have grown over the years, especially after I became the team skipper. As the years rolled by, I have become more adept at playing in different positions. Last season, I was mainly used on the right side of midfield and I am glad with my performances," Turner remarked.

"Throughout the season, I felt my form was good and as the league campaign progressed, I was confident that I would be considered for this award."

Other contenders

The other four candidates for the player of the year award were Birkirkara duo Michael Galea and William Camenzuli, Valletta's Nicky Saliba, who has since retired from football, and Hibs striker Adrian Mifsud, the 2002 winner.

Turner expected Camenzuli to provide the biggest challenge and was surprised to discover that George Mallia, also of Birkirkara, had not been shortlisted.

"Camenzuli had a very good season and so did George Mallia. I was expecting the latter to be among the top five but it did not happen that way. Obviously, my opinion does not necessarily has to be shared by all those who vote for this award," Turner said.

Steering clear of injuries was key to a fine season.

"My form definitely benefited from not having lengthy injuries," Turner said. "In the previous seasons, I was unable to leave the same impact because of a series of setbacks but, thank God, last season, I was not plagued by injuries."

At a time when players are often accused of ignoring the value of loyalty for greed, Turner's unwavering commitment to the Wanderers provides a breath of fresh air. The captain has been donning the blue colours for 20 years now and has no intention of changing that.

"I am 28 years old and it has never crossed my mind to quit Sliema," Turner said. "I want to win as many honours as possible in Malta... always with Sliema."

Turner's contract expired at the end of the season but has already held preliminary talks with president Robert Arrigo over a new three-year deal.

In a team replete with so-called prima donnas, Turner does not come across as the loudest voice in the dressing room as he is the type of person who likes to go about his business without much fuss.

He does not think that his low-profile nature means that he gets less credit for his contribution than other more talkative players do.

"Yes, I am generally regarded as a quiet lad but I believe that in football, you gain respect by doing your best on the field of play."

Apart from his success at club level, Turner has also been turning out regularly for the national team since he burst onto the scene some 10 years ago.

One could say that Turner has already fulfilled all of his childhood ambitions, what with winning the league and MFA Footballer of the Year award twice plus several other trophies.

Experience, though, has taught Turner not to take things for granted.

"You cannot rest on your laurels. Playing for Sliema and the national team is always a challenge," he said. "With the Maltese team, I haven't been involved in all games in the last few seasons but that only strengthens my resolve to maintain the momentum."

National team

Maltese football and the national squad have received a barrage of criticism in the last few months. Poor crowds for domestic matches and the dismal results on the international scene have led to calls for drastic reforms.

"The overall atmosphere around football is very negative," Turner said. "Most of the criticism has been levelled against the national squad and I must admit that the results of late have not given much cause for optimism. The debate about what measures need to be taken to improve the status quo is endless. People have suggested the removal of the training scheme but I don't think that will resolve matters."

The debate about Maltese football rumbles on and on but this write-up is a tribute to a positive factor... Turner being named player of the year 2002-2003.

"I dedicate this honour... the list is very long," Turner said as he stopped to ponder.

"My family have always been there to support me. My parents and my wife's parents have also helped me a lot in my life. I also dedicate this honour to the Sliema president, committee, players and staff because without them, I would not be doing this interview today."