Farrugia and Vella take over U-21 reins

Ray ‘Zazu’ Farrugia returned to the Malta FA fold yesterday when it was confirmed that he had been appointed U-21 national coach with Ronald Vella engaged as his assistant. The agreement was finalised following a meeting with Malta FA president Norman Darmanin Demajo.

Farrugia and Vella will take immediate charge of the U-21 squad where they will be responsible for the selection and training of players ahead of the upcoming UEFA competition, the draws of which will be made next month.

In a statement, the MFA said it was confident that the new appointments will bring in a rich background and valuable experience that will enhance the technical centre, currently going through an upgrading process.

A delighted Farrugia, who replaces Edwin Camilleri, promised to devote all his energies to his new job.

“I’m honoured that the Malta FA has entrusted me with the responsibility of leading the national U-21 team again,” Farrugia told The Sunday Times.

“I’m willing to use my knowledge and experience to try and raise the level of the U-21 team.

“I accept that it’s going to be a tough challenge but I firmly believe that with hard work and co-operation from the players, the MFA, the technical staff at Ta’ Qali and the club coaches we can aspire to reach certain targets.”

The commendable results achieved by the Malta U-21s under Farrugia will inevitably heighten expectations of a turnaround in the team’s fortunes over the next two years.

“I have fond memories of my first spell as Malta U-21 coach between 1998 and 2002,” Farrugia said.

“It was the best time of my coaching career not only because of the positive results achieved but also because the players were really committed and motivated to improve.

“Many went on to establish themselves as key players for club and country.

“You can’t really make comparisons between then and now as many things have changed but if we manage to re-create the sense of unity and team spirit of that era, that would certainly be a positive first step,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Youth FA yesterday issued a statement wherein they congratulated Robert Gatt for his new appointment as the head of the Malta FA technical centre.

“We wish him every success in his new role and we are certain that with his qualities and vast experience, including working in the youth football sector, will help Maltese football move forward,” YFA chairman, Fr Hilary Tagliaferro, said.

Fr Hilary went on to praise the vision of the MFA, which will continue to invest in the grassroots level.

“All this bodes well for the future. After the first meetings we’ve had with Robert Gatt, we are already certain that we will work well together for the benefit of our players and the local football scene in general,” he said.