Riise launches attack on team-mate

Riseth was wanted as cover for Borussia Dortmund's Andre Bergdolmo, who is rated as doubtful for their Euro 2004 play-off with Spain.

However, Riseth - considered by many to have been the best defender in Norway this season - has turned down the offer from coach Nils Johan Semb.

Riseth did not want to play at full back, having played all season as centre half for Rosenborg.

His decision did not go down well with Riise.

"I think that he is being coward and it is wrong," Riise told Dagbladet.

"First he complains about not being called, and then when they call him he says no.

"He could have trained for ten days in that position and then he would have been good enough."

Riseth explained his decision not play, saying: "It was a bit strange that he called now, when I not have heard from him in a year."

Riseth is not the first player to reject Semb's offer, with fellow star John Carew and Erik Mykland also refusing to take part.

"It felt right to say no," he continued to tell VG.

"I could soon become the scapegoat if I had to play as full back against Spain.

"I feel that is wrong, there are several full backs in Norway that are much better than me in that position."

Riseth also criticised the national team boss, who seems to prefer foreign-based players.

"When I played abroad they called me and asked how I was doing," he said.

"When I play regular for Rosenborg and feel better than ever, they don't speak to me."

Riseth's Rosenborg team-mate Stale Stensaas has been called up instead.