As part of an ongoing programme to reform its technical sector, the Malta Football Association is planning to expand the activities of its Football Academy which operates from Ta’ Qali.

The ultimate aim is to raise the level of commitment and attendance, both at the technical centre and local nurseries.

The academy currently caters for 40 young footballers in two categories, the U-14s and U-15s.

They attend regular training sessions at the Malta FA Football School.

As from this term, the Malta FA administration decided to waive the annual subscription fee the young participants had to pay in order to practise at Ta’ Qali. This move should increase the number of players as well as their training input.

Furthermore, in future, more talented youngsters will be invited to join other groups. This will be done with the help of the Malta FA staff coaches who are constantly scouting for quality players during competitions organised by the Youth FA and other events hosted by local nurseries.

In a statement, Robert Gatt, the Malta FA technical director, said that those joining the Football Academy will be monitored regularly.

Players who fail to show constant improvement and commitment will be replaced by others, Gatt added.

“The MFA wants to create an ‘open centre’ by inviting the emerging crop of promising footballers to its fold,” Gatt said.

“This will be done through adequate scouting by our qualified staff coaches.”