Sliema's Debono to miss 'Old Firm' clash
Valletta less Dean, Bondin vs Hibs on Saturday
Sliema Wanderers will be without Darren Debono for this week's Old Firm clash against Floriana.
The central defender was in the list of suspended players issued yesterday by the Malta FA.
Debono collected a fourth yellow card during Tuesday's goalless draw against Marsaxlokk at the Centenary Stadium.
Saturday's match carries great significance for both teams as Sliema will be looking to keep the pace with the other title challengers while Floriana need points to maintain their push for a top-six berth. They are currently sharing fifth place with Valletta and Msida St Joseph.
Valletta face Hibernians in Saturday's second match.
Yesterday, the Citizens learnt that they will have to do without midfielders Jonathan Bondin and Craig Dean, both suspended for one match.
Dean was dismissed in the first half during last week's 1-0 win over Pietà Hotspurs and Bondin received his fourth caution during the same match.
Valletta, meanwhile, are still hoping to acquire the services of Sliema's out-of-favour midfielder Claude Mattocks before the transfer deadline next Tuesday.
Initial talks between the two clubs failed to yield an agreement but Valletta are still hoping to strike a deal, perhaps in time for the match against Hibs.
The Paolites have no players suspended but coach Robert Gatt is sure to be without Terrence Scerri and David Williamson, both injured. Moreover, the Paolites are also sweating on the fitness of goalkeeper Mario Muscat who suffered a rib injury during the team's 2-0 upset to Birkirkara.
Striker Claudio Calleja is banned from Pietà's next match against Msida St Joseph after he received a fourth yellow card against Valletta.
The Hotspurs, however, could have striker Mark Galea in their squad. He was released by Valletta earlier this week and is expected to complete his transfer in time before Sunday.
Leaders Birkirkara will have to do without midfielder Adrian Ciantar for Sunday's match against Mosta at the Tedesco Stadium after receiving a one-match ban. Dyson Falzon, the Mosta midfielder, is also out of this fixture through suspension.
The other Premier League player on the suspensions list yesterday was Hamrun wing-back Steve Sadowski. He is ruled out of the Spartans' crucial clash against Valletta on February 5.