Former Hibernians FC and Malta defender John Privitera passed away yesterday at the Mater Dei Hospital following a short illness.

Privitera, who was born in Sliema in 1940, was one of the best Maltese attacking full-backs of the 1960s. He started his career at the age of 17 with Sliema Wanderers but joined Hibernians shortly afterwards in 1959.

At Paola, he established himself as a regular in the U-21 team and senior side. In 1961 Hibernians won the championship and a year later the FA Trophy and Cassar Cup.

Hibernians were again champions in 1967 and 1969 and Privitera rarely missed a match for the Paolites in that particular era. Before deciding to hang up his boots in 1974, Privitera had played 262 competitive matches for the Paolites, scoring 18 goals. He was also Footballer of the Year in 1968-69.

Privitera played seven times for Malta and captained the national team in the game against Austria in April 1969.

He also played in all European club matches for Hibs including the encounters against Servette, Atletico Madrid, Manchester United and Real Madrid.

Privitera also led Hibernians to prestigious results in friendly matches against Chelsea, Arsenal, Portsmouth and Milan.

Until a few months ago, Privitera was still active in football and gave his advice and assistance in the Hibernians FC nursery.

One of the products of the Hibernians youth scheme is Jonathan Caruana, Privitera's grandson.

Caruana is another promising and talented defender in the local game.

Privitera's funeral will be held tomorrow at the Tarxien Parish Church at 4.30 p.m.