Pietro Ghedin was today officially presented as the Malta National Team Coach after signing a three-and-a-half year contract with the MFA.

This is his second spell as coach, having also been at the helm for some years in the 1990s. He has been coach of the Italian women's team since 2005.

In comments at the Centenary Hall in Ta' Qali, Mr Ghedin thanked the MFA for its confidence and said he hoped to repay it with great commitment and professionalism.

"I am prepared to do my very best to ensure that the team does well," he said.

Commenting on Malta's prospects in the World Cup qualifying group matches, Mr Ghedin said it was important that the team gave its best. "Obviously there are great names in the group (Italy, Denmark and the Czech Republic)  but we have to make sure that we leave the field after every match with our heads held high. You can win or lose, but the most important thing is that you are convinced that you have done everything possible," he said.

Ghedin's first test will be Malta's away friendly game against Luxembourg on June 2.

MFA President Norman Darmanin Demajo said one reason why the MFA had opted for Ghedin was continuity. "We know him and he knows us, that is very important," Mr Darmanin Demajo said.