Failla heads back to Hibernians

Clayton Failla is returning for a second spell with Hibernians after the wing-back reached an agree-ment with Sliema Wanderers for his transfer.

Lengthy discussions between the two clubs finally led to an agree-ment yesterday after the deal looked to have hit a stumbling block last weekend.

Failla, who is currently training with the Malta squad ahead of tomorrow’s friendly international against the Central African Republic, will join Hibs on a permanent basis with Ian Scerri moving the other way on a two-year loan deal.

Sources told The Times that Failla will sign a five-year contract with Hibs where he will be reunited with coach Mark Miller.

The departure of Failla from Sliema was inevitable after the Blues had made it known that they were prepared to sell the 25-year-old.

Although Floriana were keen on Failla, Hibs were always regarded as favourites to re-sign the Malta player after they declared their interest.

A product of St Patrick, Failla made a name for himself as a dynamic, speedy winger during his first stint with Hibs. He was one of the Paolites’ star performers in their championship-winning campaign in season 2008/09 and also won the coveted Malta FA player of the year award.

After his contract with Hibs expired at the end of season 2008/09, Failla decided to sign for Sliema who had just won the FA Trophy.

The Wanderers hailed Failla as a marquee signing but he struggled to reproduce his best form in the two seasons he spent with the Blues as injuries also took their toll.

It is somewhat unusual for Hibs to go for a player who had quit the club at the end of his contract but the Paolites have broken with tra-dition by bringing Failla back.

At 25, Failla has yet to reach his peak and the long-held perception at Hibs was that the former St Patrick winger had not been adequately replaced following his move to Sliema in 2009.

For his part, Failla will be hoping that his return to Hibs will help him rediscover his best form as the Paolites bid to produce a strong challenge for a top-three placing in the Premier League this season.

Meanwhile, Division Two club Gżira United have continued to strengthen their squad after signing winger Ryan Deguara on loan from Mosta.

Deguara had a loan spell with Qormi in 2009/10.