Second Division champions Zejtun Corinthians strengthened their squad ahead of the forthcoming First Divsion campaign which gets underway this weekend with the signing of seven new players.

The Corinthians secured the services of Albanian striker Gers Delia and Bulgarian duo Nikolay Filipov and Kalin Ganchev. The latter two played for Mellieha and Victoria Hotspurs respectively last season. Other new signings include Antoine Zahra, Matthew Borg formerly of Siggiewi, Andre Farrugia who joins the club on loan from Hibernians and Lyden Micallef from Mosta.

Club secretary Carmelo Abela said the club had two successful seasons after winning two consecutive promotions as Third Division and Second Division champions, winning the Second and Third Division Knock-Out for the past two years.

The club’s objective is now to secure their First Division status as early as possible, giving a hard time to all teams in Division 1. To have a competitive side, Zejtun strengthened the squad with a number of new players and appointed a new coach, Joey Falzon who has considerable experience in the First Division.

Other players who were on loan with the club such as Ranier Farrugia, Ryan Cauchi and Matthew Pisani made a permanent move to Zejtun.

New coach Joey Falzon said that he found good foundations at the club and his objective was that of continuing to build on this. Aware of the fact that the First Division is a more difficult competition than the Second, the team had to be strengthened with the signing of new players.

Falzon said the main aim will be that of retaining First Division status but depending on the results obtained, the Corinthians will be there to challenge even for higher objectives.

Zejtun president Sean Abela thanked the new players who joined the club and said he is confident they will settle down easily with the rest of the squad.

Abela thanked supporters for the constant backing throughout the season and thanked the sponsors as it was only thanks to them that the club could build a competitive squad.