Blades land in Malta for pre-season training programme

Kevin Blackwell put his squad through a rigorous training session at United’s Shirecliffe training complex in the morning before the team boarded the Air Malta flight.

United’s squad would be based at the Fortina Spa Resort, which is situated in central Sliema. The players were greeted by temperatures of 27 degrees, as they went for a morning run around Sliema’s harbour which boasts magnificent views across to the capital city of Valletta.

The Malta FA training grounds in Ta’ Qali would be acting as base camp for United’s training programme. Given the hot temperatures the island enjoyed during the summer period, the coaching staff had scheduled daily training sessions to take place in the early mornings and evenings.

United’s latest signings, including Maltese international Daniel Bogdanovic, would no doubt be looking forward to getting a taste of first-team life with the Blades.

“Malta has become a second home for Sheffield United. It is beneficial for my coaching staff and players to be working in such familiar and hospitable surroundings for what is an integral part of an intense pre-season training programme,” United’s manager Kevin Blackwell explained.

“I’m sure added attention will be given to our Maltese signing, Bogdanovic. The fact that his introduction starts in Malta will make this a special occasion for the player,” Blackwell insisted.

United’s pre-season preparations on the island were building towards Friday’s triangular tournament between the Blades and Maltese Premiership opposition. Hibernians FC and Vittoriosa Stars FC would play each other for the first game, which will kick-off at 7.30pm local time at the ground of Hibernians.