Fitzel starts coaching stint

New national coach Dusan Fitzel yesterday conducted his first training session with national team players at Ta' Qali.

Fitzel, 42, was officially an-nounced Malta coach on Monday by MFA president Joe Mifsud.

The Czech, who signed a two-year contract, succeeds Horst Heese who decided not to prolong his stay here after a second two-year stint in charge.

Fitzel had a brief players' meeting on Tuesday during which he outlined some of his plans for the future. He told players he'll dedicate the next few weeks to acclimatise in his new environs, local football and his members in the squad.

It was also confirmed that Mark Miller, responsible for the U-21 squad, will again act as assistant coach to the senior team. Fitzel will also be the MFA Technical Director for the next two years and intends to get more involved in youth development training as well.

During Tuesday's meeting, the players were addressed by Dr Mifsud. He said the MFA is doing its utmost to revive the Professional Scheme so more players in the squad will be able to attend morning training sessions.

Yesterday's training was conducted at the mini-football artificial turf pitch near the Centenary Stadium. Only a handful of players showed up and Valletta's Massimo Grima, currently nursing a knee injury, practised separately with MFA physio Joseph St John.