SAINTS target Mikael Nilsson confessed earlier this year that he didn't feel his playing style was suited to the Premiership.

Talking to the Swedish press, he was quoted as saying he would prefer to play in France or Holland.

Leicester City were monitoring Nilsson, who joined Halmstads from IFK Gothenburg four years ago, before last January's transfer window opened - as were French side Metz.

But the player told Swedish newspaper Expressen: "I would probably fit in anywhere (in Europe), except in The Premiership.

"It is tough and rough and I lack the physical strength.

"I believe my playing style would be most suitable in France and Holland. It sounds tremendously interesting in the French league."

Nilsson only made his international debut in November 2002 but immediately made an impression as he grabbed two goals in a 3-3 draw with the Czech Republic.

Nilsson, who was winning his 16th cap against Bulgaria last night, also scored in the 2-0 Euro 2004 qualifying win in Poland last September.

After beginning the Euro 2004 qualifying campaign on the bench, he forced his way into the starting XI for the final few matches as the Swedes clinched their place in Portugal.

"During the spring (of 2003), Mikael Nilsson was unknown on the international market," Nilsson's agent Kent Carlson said last December.

"Today, his name is discussed frequently in managerial offices."