Margaret Abela was also presented with a Sheffield United shirt that had been signed by the squad of players attending this year’s Blades pre-season tour of Malta. The shirt will now be auctioned off for the charity organisation.
Mike Farnan said: “It was a great honour to meet the wife of Malta’s President at such a notable location. This occasion reflects the special bond that has grown between Sheffield United and the country of Malta. United’s rooted partnership with the Malta Tourism Authority not only delivers strong promotion to the UK of the island as a holiday destination, but links in with our commitment to support local community initiatives both in Sheffield and Malta.”
The session gave supporters an early glimpse of new signings Daniel Bogdanovic, Steve Simonsen, Johnny Ertl and Leon Britton. There was also a warm welcome for the Blades regulars, that included the likes of club captain Chris Morgan and Blades 2009-10 Player of the Year, Nick Montgomery and striker Richard Cresswell. All three players have recently signed contract extensions with the Blades.
The training session granted Blades supporters a rare insight into the intense training programme the players undergo pre-season. The crowd watched on as the players completed a series of warm-up, crossing and shooting exercises before playing in a nine-a-side match.