Pietro Ghedin happy to be back in Malta

'I am happy to take up this appointment and will do my utmost for the cause of Maltese football. We have to believe we are able to go forward. It will be a challenge not only for me but also for the players and the association,' the Italian said, stressing that there is a lot of hard work to be done in order to reach our aims.

He referred to Malta's first competitive engagement in the World Cup preliminary Group B matches against Armenia at home and Italy away. He said that preparation will be geared to reach our best levels in these and subsequent matches.

Recalling his coaching stint between 1993 and 1995, Ghedin remarked that he has affectionate memories of his work in Malta. 'The MFA presented me with the occasion to return. I have followed Malta's fortunes since that time and I believe you have extraordinary boys when it comes to total involvement'.

As for Malta's prospects in the forthcoming World Cup matches he was non-commital, saying only that Malta 'has to be present not absent.'

Finally, Ghedin thanked the Italian Football Federation, FIGC, for giving him the opportunity to take up this assignment in Malta.

MFA president, Norman Darmanin Demajo, who introduced Ghedin to the journalists, said that the choice of the Italian was one of continuity as his familiarity with Maltese football was bound to be an advantage. He said that the objective was to honour our fixtures with maximum competitive commitment.

He then referred to the clubs' situation when releasing players for training with the national side, saying that the clubs are aware that the system is for the benefit of all, the players, the clubs themselves and Maltese football.      

He finally spoke about the useful work that is being done by Robert Gatt as MFA technical director, a job which is being done assiduously 'and with a minimum of fuss'.